Kawempe Division North

448 TRIBUTE TO THE LATE GEN. (RTD) MOSES ALI Tuesday, 21 July 2026 He served Uganda with whatever strength remained in him until the very end. His life was a testament to resilience, sacrifice and patriotism. He belonged to a generation that endured conflict, championed reconciliation and helped rebuild our nation. His contribution towards restoring peace and stability in West Nile and strengthening the institutions of our country will remain an enduring part of Uganda’s history. We also acknowledge and appreciate His Excellency, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who entrusted him with some of the nation’s highest responsibilities over the years, which was a reflection of the trust placed in his experience, loyalty and steadfast service to Uganda. To his family, the people of Adjumani, West Nile and the entire nation, Parliament extends its deepest condolences. There is an African proverb that says, “When an elder dies, a library burns.” Today, Uganda has lost one of its greatest libraries, a repository of history, wisdom and public service. Through his voice, though his voice is now silent, his example of perseverance, selflessness, service and unwavering commitment to duty will continue to inspire generations of Ugandans to come. The Holy Quran, in Surah 2:156, teaches us that indeed to Allah we belong and to Him we return. May the soul of our senior leader and Member, Rt Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, rest in eternal peace. (Entrance of the late Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - SPECIAL SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 10.14 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

456 TRIBUTE TO THE LATE GEN. (RTD) MOSES ALI wherever he is, he must be happy that at least he has been given a send-off with full military honours. (Applause) I do not know which other portrait you would have put there with him in civilian clothes. The Rt Hon. Gen. Moses Ali, though my senior in all ways, whether it is in age, in rank, or in status, was also a personal friend. I personally worked with him closely in the mid-1990s when I was a Private Secretary to His Excellency, the President. I always treated his correspondence to the President on matters of stabilisation of West Nile as a top priority. I later on worked with him closely in 2004 when I was in Charge of the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence at a time some rebel group was trying to establish bases in West Nile, which, with his support, we were able to dismantle. A few years back, when he came back from treatment abroad, he called and updated me on his health and a planned thanksgiving function in Adjumani. I could not attend the function because I was out of the country, but I sent him some contribution towards the function. He was so grateful and appreciative that when he returned to Kampala, he gifted me an autographed copy of his book, “The Odyssey of the Nubi from Soldiers of the British Empire to Full Citizens of Uganda”. In that book, he gives an account of the injustices to Nubi soldiers and the Nubi resistance against the British establishment, leading to the earliest struggles against colonialism and perhaps planting the seeds of the struggle for the independence of Uganda. Central in his book is the contention that until the NRM Government came into power, the Nubi were marginalised and largely denied their fundamental rights and entitlements. Mr Speaker, beyond the titles, medals and ranks, the late Rt Hon. Gen. Moses Ali was a person of deep character whose kindness touched many lives, especially the people of Adjumani. His leadership was particularly felt in West Nile, where he was not only a national figure, but also a trusted son in the region. Affectionately known as the “Cock” of West Nile, the late Rt Hon. Gen. Moses Ali was credited with advancing Government development programmes, promoting national unity and supporting partnerships aimed at improving livelihoods in Adjumani and other parts of the country. To many in the West Nile Region, he was a respected leader who championed the interests of his people. His supporters remember him for his commitment to community development, national unity, and public service. No wonder they continued voting him into Parliament even when his health had deteriorated and he was visibly frail. Mr Speaker, the late Rt Hon. Gen. Ali had the will to live. He was a fighter like a real General, and he fought on till the last hour. He could never miss national functions. I think even his decision to contest for Member of Parliament this year shows his never-retreat, never- surrender, never-give-up spirit of a General. (Applause) Mr Speaker, as we mourn the General’s departure, we also celebrate a life well- lived. A life marked by service, sacrifice and commitment to Uganda. His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the country’s history, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. The late Rt Hon. Gen. Moses Ali’s contribution to our nation will remain woven into the fabric of our history, and his memory will continue to guide those who follow in his footsteps. We are grateful for a life lived with purpose, for sacrifices that secured our people’s freedom, and for a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Though the late Rt Hon. Gen. Moses Ali is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in every citizen who cherishes freedom, every soldier who serves with honour, and every young person inspired to lead with integrity.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on behalf of the elders and people of Northern Uganda, whom I represent, to convey our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Gen. Moses Ali, Parliament, the Executive led by His Excellency the President, the Judiciary, and the whole country. The late Moses Ali was our icon and had a big heart. In 1986, when the First Lady founded Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), Rt Hon. Moses Ali was one of the donors and a great supporter of the organisation because I personally used to go to his farm, together with my late sister, Ms Angela Kaba, to get bulls for our orphans. In 1994, Gen. Moses Ali and I were campaigning for the Constituent Assembly (CA). On my way back to Nebbi, I had to pass through Moyo and Gulu, but we were abducted by rebels in Pabbo. Fortunately, our Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) were nearby and quickly came to our rescue, but all our things were looted. When I reached Adjumani, I had to report to Gen. Moses Ali, who was also busy with his campaign. He gave me more money than I had raised in Kampala or what had been looted. I am very grateful to him. Mr Speaker, Gen. Moses Ali worked with me when I was appointed to the Cabinet. He guided and mentored me when I was a junior Minister of State – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I start by thanking His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the gesture to our brother by having this special sitting. As West Nile, we thank the “cock” of West Nile for the peace that we are now witnessing in the region. Very many people from West Nile were born and grew up in exile, that is, South Sudan and eastern Congo, but when the NRM Government took over power, the 16 November 1986 agreement brought peace in the region and from that time to date, nobody from West Nile has moved to exile. Secondly, before the NRM Government, we used to travel from West Nile to Kampala for a week because we did not have a tarmac road. Gen. Moses Ali took it upon himself to always remind His Excellency about tarmacking the Karuma-Koboko-Kaya Road. As I speak, that road is tarmacked, and as regards the road from Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo, the contractor is also on site. That means the entire West Nile is going to enjoy a tarmac road. We thank him for that.

Mr Speaker, on behalf of the people of Kampala, I rise to pay tribute to the fallen Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, the people of West Nile, the Muslim fraternity and the nation at large. From an Islamic perspective, death reminds us that every soul shall return to Allah and what remains are those good deeds. Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, the late, championed unity, particularly amongst the Muslim community and he also encouraged co-existence of all persons irrespective of their background, political affiliations or faith.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I speak on behalf of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, as the minister, and as the representative of Kampala Central Division. I support the motion. Mr Speaker, all has been said, but Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali was a committed Muslim whose faith guided his life. He was widely recognised as a pillar of the Muslim community, especially among the Nubian community. He was respected for promoting unity, peace and harmony among Muslims and all Ugandans. You have seen some factions, but he belonged to both factions. That is why he went to Kibuli and Uganda Muslim Supreme Council. His contribution to the growth of Islam in Uganda will remain part of his enduring legacy. He used his influence in the Government to support the development of Islamic University in Uganda, where he also served on the university’s council and chaired its finance committee. He equally championed the establishment and growth of Kibuli Muslim Hospital, expanding access to healthcare while strengthening Muslim institutions in the country. These are lasting monuments that will continue to benefit generations of Ugandans. Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali demonstrated that faith and public service can complement one another. He carried himself with humility, respected people of all backgrounds, and remained steadfast in his belief that national development is based – (Member timed out.)

To deliver goats from Adjumani to Kampala, probably you need fuel of Shs 1 million and a goat is Shs 300,000, but he said, “No, this is a gesture”. That is how kind he was. However, he said that we should work on the bridge. I told MK- the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), that if this Government does not work on the bridge between Moyo and Adjumani, then we shall do it. Let us honour all our elders when they are alive. Mr Speaker, I would like us to honour the elders like Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga. We should not talk well about them after they have gone. Instead, we should honour them when they are alive, and we should give them whatever they want when they are alive. God bless all of you. May his soul rest in peace.

Mr Speaker, the procedural matter I am raising is under Rule 8. There is a tendency to favour some committees over others. Maybe that is why some people choose to crowd some committees and refuse to join others. These Whips face a lot of problems, having to convince Members to serve on one committee rather than another preferred one. Mr Speaker, some committees can barely get an office or a room where to hold meetings. I have ever been a Chairperson of the Committee on Government Assurance. I want to report that it is one of those committees that are not favoured. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 11TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.09 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

I think let us agree that – Hon. Mapenduzi Ojara, is Gulu at any border? He could be telling us he was in DRC. Let him be the last on this matter, and we move on. However, what is important is that the leaders from those areas need to be met by the Government so that - The cases were in Kampala, but Hon. Martin Mapenduzi, please.

411 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 JULY 2026 infrastructural, logistical and operational costs associated with the preparation for both the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 and AFCON 2027, including Uganda’s obligatory commitment fees to CAF. In addition, the Government has approved Shs 905 billion to meet contractual intersectoral funding and administrative requirements for AFCON 2027. Mr Speaker, the additional commitments include the following major interventions: 1. Support to the upgrading of selected hotels in Hoima and Masindi through a special credit facility, in accordance with CAF standards; 2. Upgrading priority access roads, pedestrian walkways and street lighting around Hoima City Stadium and Mandela National Stadium; 3. Construction of a passenger terminal at Kabalega Airport and operationalise the facility as an international airport; 4. Upgrade of Kadiba Stadium as a training facility and support preparations for the Uganda Cranes; 5. Support to the Local Organising Committee to undertake tournament- specific preparations across its subcommittees; 6. Remodelling and upgrade of Mandela National Stadium; 7. Deployment and improvement of ICT infrastructure at airports, hotels, stadia, training facilities and hospitals supporting the tournament; 8. Upgrade of designated health facilities in Hoima, Masindi and Buseruka to provide intensive care, accident and emergency services; 9. Strengthening of sanitation and environmental hygiene services in the host city, that is, Hoima City and Masindi Municipal Council; 10. Upgrade of meteorological services to support tournament operations; 11. Improvement to water-supply infrastructure in Hoima City; 12. Upgrade and maintenance of railway infrastructure serving Kampala, Mukono, Namanve and Namboole; 13. Extension of electricity infrastructure to key AFCON facilities, including Hoima City Stadium and Kabalega International Airport; 14. Promoting Uganda as a tourism destination under the AFCON brand; 15. Waiver of visa fees for visitors during the tournament period; and 16. Pursuit of a joint PAMOJA visa with Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania to ease the movement of fans and guests. Mr Speaker, the above-mentioned interventions will be directly implemented by the Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies responsible. I will repeat that. The above-mentioned interventions will be directly implemented by Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies responsible. The Minister of Education and Sports, and the LOC will play a supervisory role to ensure timely implementation of activities by MDAs and conformity to CAF standards. The detailed updates on infrastructure development in preparation for the AFCON tournament are as follows: 1. Hoima City Stadium Works for construction of Hoima City Stadium have been completed and the Defects Liability Period will expire in December 2026. During this period, the contractor will undertake remedial works to address comments made by CAF after their recent inspection. We expect the next inspection on 31 August 2026. 2. Mandela National Stadium The Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs for design and build works for the expansion of Mandela National Stadium, Namboole under phase II was signed on 26 February 2026. Under this phase, we expect, among others, the following:

413 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 JULY 2026 10. Support the upgrading of selected hotels in Hoima and Masindi through a special credit facility in accordance with CAF standards. In preparation for AFCON 2027, the Government, in consultations with CAF, has shortlisted prospective hotel owners whose facilities will be upgraded to meet the required accommodation standard. A total of Shs 101.1 billion has been earmarked to support hotel improvement works in Hoima City and Masindi. The funding will facilitate renovation works and provide interest rate support through the Uganda Development Bank for approved service providers. Regarding the proposed new hotel at Kabalega International Airport, a number of developers have expressed interest, and the evaluation of bids is scheduled to commence on Thursday this week. Mr Speaker, as of this morning, the Rt Hon. Prime Minister chaired a meeting between the hotel owners and Uganda Development Bank to agree on the modalities regarding the timeline for the line of credit versus the position the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the bank have given. I want to say the consultations are ongoing. I am also saying that we are cognisant of the time. 11. Construct a Passenger Terminal at Kabalega Airport. This intervention is awaiting the award of a contract and confirmation of financing for the outstanding funding gap to facilitate commencement of works. Government earmarked Shs 185 billion for that project to have a terminal in Kabalega Airport in Hoima. 12. Upgrade designated health facilities in Hoima, Masindi, and Buseruka to provide intensive care, accident and emergency Services. Hoima Regional Referral Hospital: Construction has reached the superstructure stage; Masindi Municipal Hospital: excavation works have been completed, and foundation concrete works are underway. Buseruka Health Centre III: Walling works are progressing towards the ring beam level, with roofing scheduled for completion by the Ministry of Works and Transport. These works are all undertaken by the UPDF’s Engineering Brigade. 13. Upgrade and maintenance of railway infrastructure servicing Kampala, Mukono, Namamve and Namboole. Construction of a passenger boarding and drop- off station at Kampala, Namboole, Namamve and Mukono, and refurbishment and retrofitting of locomotives to support passenger transport during AFCON 2027. 14. Deploy improved ICT infrastructure at the airport, hotel, stadia, training facilities, and hospital supporting the tournament. Installation of the Wi-Fi and CCTV systems at Mandela National Stadium, Hoima City Stadium, Akii Bua, 8 training facilities across Kampala, Hoima, Masindi, Gulu, and Lira, selected hospital tourism sites, and CAF headquarters in Kampala is ongoing. Mr Speaker, I wish to assure this House that the Government remains fully committed to delivering a successful AFCON 2027. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the required infrastructure, services, and support systems are completed within the agreed timelines. As preparations progress, Government will keep this House regularly informed on implementation progress, key milestones achieved, and any emerging issues requiring attention. Before I conclude, Mr Speaker, allow me again to say Akii Bua Olympic Stadium is our backup stadium. 65 per cent of its work is done. It is

Mr Speaker, I am happy that everybody is now in the mood of AFCON 2027. I would like to thank the President and the First Lady who have been coordinating all these efforts. A lot has been done; we are well coordinated and doing all that is possible to make sure Uganda hosts AFCON 2027. I undertake to involve all colleagues, both in Wakiso, Kampala and Hoima, even Lira, where Akii- Bua Stadium is located. Today I chaired a meeting of hotel owners, including those from Northern Uganda, because as we speak, Akii-Bua Stadium construction is 100 per cent complete –(Interjections) - yes, they are just planting grass. Apart from a few patches – (Interjections) - information not taken. All of us wish the best for this country, and I know we have an obligation. I once again undertake to involve everybody.

Thank you very much. I thank the Woman MP for Kampala for raising this issue. I have not looked at that podcast, but I will look for it and see. Anyhow, what I can briefly say is that pregnancy and childbirth is a physiological condition, it is not a sickness and, therefore, no mother should die or suffer complications in the process of giving birth to a life. We have made interventions, which have been in place. I can tell Parliament that maternal mortality, which is a measure of mothers who

Honourable members, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have a delegation that has come to attend the celebration of today’s Feast of St. Thomas More. They are: 1. Rev. Fr Vianney Ssekalaala from St Mbaaga’s Major Seminary, Ggaba - (Applause) - I am an Old Boy (OB) of St Denis S.S Ssebugwawo, which is not far away from there. This is the first OB of St Denis S.S, being a Speaker. I am not from Buddo like others. (Laughter.); 2. Mr Gervase Ndyanabo, the National Head of Laity; 3. Madam Ritah Nakyeyune, the President of Catholic Women Guild, Kampala Diocese; 4. Dr Aol Eve Ojok; and 5. Ms Nalwanga Regina. They have come to observe the proceedings of the House. Please join me in welcoming them and make them feel welcome. (Applause) The honourable members who wish to go to this Mass, you do not need to be a Catholic to know who St Thomas is. If you are a lawyer, you studied about St Thomas. The prayers are going on. Next is Hon. Sheilah Amaniyo Draville. One minute, and you have two questions.

Mr Speaker, I feel I have to praise the President over this. If you compare the prices in Uganda with that of our neighbours, you will realise that the Government you have must stay. Honourable members, the policy of the Government taking over the importation of oil in this country was the best policy we have ever had. You can ask from the neighbours. Please do not make a survey in Mukono or Kampala here. Make a survey regionally and globally. You will appreciate that H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is the best President.

Regarding the second question, there is no load shedding in the country but only outages because of rapid development in various areas. Where we had put a 50 KVA transformer, we need a 100 KVA transformer. We are actually working to procure transformers to install in those areas which are experiencing overloads. Secondly, we are aware that many places do not have substations. We have plans to upgrade substations in areas that have rapidly developed so that we can provide adequate electricity. We also have plans to install new substations. For example, we are aware that Kampala is developing very fast and relies on one substation. We are now separating substations which are meant for industries, and we are going to build a substation to supply households in Kampala – in Ntinda. This will be specifically for Kampala, separate from the industries. So, we are in the know of what you are talking about; upgrading the substations and building substations. The Yaka metres are actually being procured.

Honourable members, I wish to congratulate Members who were recently designated to serve on the Parliamentary Commission, chairpersons, deputy chairpersons of committees and representatives of the Parliament to regional and international parliamentary bodies, including but not limited to the Pan African Parliament, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly. Once again, I want to congratulate you. (Applause) I also want to comfort those who did not make it through that there is hope. Honourable members, with the Parliamentary Commission, committees, and parliamentary representatives to the various parliamentary bodies in place, the 12 th Parliament can now commence its work in earnest. I encourage all the Members entrusted with these responsibilities to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity and unwavering commitment to the people of Uganda. My attention has been drawn to a matter regarding the annual reports of the Auditor- General to Parliament for the audit year ended 31 st December 2025 and the outcome of the meeting between the Leader of the Opposition, the Government Chief Whip, the Chief Opposition Whip, the Attorney-General and Hon. Masaba Karim, which came out with a position that the six months for consideration of the report commences upon reinstatement and laying of the report, which position I agree with. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 10TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.07 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Marksons Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Therefore, I guide that Hon. Paul Mwiru, who is a practicing lawyer, furnishes the Attorney-General with the details; one, whether there was effective service. Also, give the identity of the person who was served with the writ. Habeas Corpus is an order that says, “Bring the body of so and so.” That is sorted – honourable member for Kampala, we want to debate the State-of-the- Nation Address. After that, there will be a statement by the Attorney-General on human rights.

353 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 15 JULY 2026 This statement sets out: firstly, the factual position on the reported deaths; secondly, the technical explanation for why school-age children are presenting with severe malaria; thirdly, whether a new or more virulent parasite strain is responsible for these deaths; and fourthly, the measures the Government has already put in place and the commitments that I want to make before this Parliament. Let me now speak to the factual position on the reported deaths. The statement is uploaded on the iPads. The Ministry of Health confirms that four learners have died in the Kampala Metropolitan Area following severe malaria: two at Makerere College School, one at Mengo Senior School and one at Gayaza High School. For completeness and to avoid the conflation of unrelated incidents in public discourse, we also want to place on record that separate recent learner deaths also occurred in other schools but these deaths were not related to this surge in malaria and are not part of this malaria cluster. I have provided a table that indicates the number of deaths in the various schools. In Makerere College School, the cause of death of the two learners was severe malaria. In Mengo Senior Secondary School, one child died due to severe malaria. In Gayaza High School, one learner also died due to severe malaria. In Naalya Secondary School, we lost one learner due to suicide – this was not related to malaria. In Ndejje Secondary School, we lost one learner and the death was secondary to trauma. This was also not related to malaria. In Katakwi Secondary School, the student died due to a road traffic accident, and in Kakiri Secondary School, it was also due to a road traffic accident. Honourable members, you will also note that the four malaria-related deaths are concentrated in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, a historically low transmission zone. I will speak to this later in terms of what it means. This geographic pattern is central to the ministry’s technical assessment below and is not, on the current evidence, indicative of a nationwide surge in malaria mortality among school-age children. In other words, there is no nationwide surge in malaria infections, but these deaths occurring among our learners are largely in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) because it is a low-transmission zone. The learners do not have the immunological competence to fight off malaria, as I will explain. Mr Speaker, let me provide the technical explanation why the school-age children in urban areas have an elevated risk of malaria, and the question which is being posed is: is this a new or more dangerous strain of malaria or not? Mr Speaker, I want to address this question directly and without ambiguity. This is because it is a question that has understandably alarmed parents and the public. Uganda routinely conducts genomic surveillance of saturating malaria parasites through the National Malaria Control Division in collaboration with research partners. Genomic surveillance refers to the analysis of genetics of the parasite to see whether what is causing this outbreak or infection is different genetically from the other parasites. So, we usually carry out those assessments and analyses. This surveillance has not detected any change in the virulence of the parasites currently circulating in the country. Virulence means the ability to cause disease in a more aggressive manner. The analysis we have done does not show that there is a change in the type of parasites causing these infections among our children. Therefore, Plasmodium falciparum, which is the parasite that causes malaria, remains, as it has for decades, the dominant species in Uganda and accounts for approximately 97 per cent of infections, and it is well established as a species responsible for the most severe forms of the disease.

354 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION [Dr Baryomunsi] Therefore, what I am saying is that what has killed these learners is the same type of parasite which ordinarily causes malaria. It is not a new strain that has caused this. On the basis of the current genomic and clinical surveillance data, the ministry’s technical position is that there is no evidence of a new malaria strain driving these deaths. I am alluding to the fears because the issue being raised was that there is a new strain of malaria parasites. I am saying no; it is the ordinary parasite that is causing these deaths. So, the question then is, why then are school- age children dying? Allow me to answer that. The explanation lies not in the parasite but rather in the immunological profile of the affected population. That is the ability of the body to defend itself against malaria. That was what I meant by immunological profile. Uganda’s sustained investment in malaria control over the past two decades and the measures taken include long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, and I hope all of you sleep under treated mosquito nets as Members of Parliament. If you do not, inform me as the Minister of Health. (Laughter) The other measures are indoor residual spraying, which we have been using, and also improved case management. These measures, among others, have substantially reduced transmission in urban and highland areas, including the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. I am saying highland areas and Kampala because these are areas where transmission is usually low. They are not malaria-prone areas and in such places, you will find that the people do not have acquired immunity against infection because they are not exposed. Now, for those who come from areas with a lot of malaria, you need to get the defence immune system in your body. However, if you are from an area like Kampala and highland areas, because there is no high frequency of malaria, your body does not develop enough defence against it. When you get the attack, it becomes very severe. This is what is causing the problem in children. This is, on its own terms, a public health success. Success means the other interventions we have been providing. However, it has produced a well-documented epidemiological paradox that children growing up in these low transmission areas are exposed to malaria parasites less frequently in early childhood, and therefore do not build up the same level of acquired immunity as children in high transmission rural areas. That was the explanation I have given. The children who are in areas with a high density of malaria develop immunity early enough, but those from areas where malaria is not of high prevalence do not develop adequate defence systems in the body. Those areas include the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and some highland areas like Kigezi and Bugisu. The children affected had low immunity because they were not exposed to malaria in their early ages.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. Let me, before I make my submission, join those who spoke before me to congratulate you on being the Speaker of the 12 th Parliament. (Applause) Two, on the matter - I am not a doctor, but a leader and parent, and I have life. Today, the House is debating malaria. I do not think it is only malaria that is killing Ugandans, but this was maybe special because it killed children. Malaria has been killing children, by the way, for a very long time. It is still, I think, the topmost killer disease in Uganda. However, if you research even in the region, Uganda loses a lot of people because of a number of illnesses and problems. I have been trying to do some research to find out why, in Uganda, Speakers, Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Generals all have cancer. Why? My research revealed two main issues. First, Mr Speaker, 98 per cent of Ugandans do not attend regular medical checkups. That is a fact. We live on self-medication. When you get a headache, you go to the nearest pharmacist. The pharmacist prescribes some drugs, and you go home. When the pain reduces, you do not even finish the drug they gave you. That is why you see that every two kilometres there is a new pharmacy: pharmacies or drug stores make a lot of money off us. For us who are here, if you reflect on what is in your bedroom, you find that all of us have mini pharmacies in our houses because of self- medication - (Laughter) - that is a problem for all of us. Two, Mr Speaker, even the 2 per cent who regularly try to find out how they are by checking, they do not get the correct diagnosis. That is another huge problem. If you picked 10 people from this Parliament and sent them to the famous hospitals in Kampala – if you go to Mulago National Referral Hospital, they will test your blood samples and whatever and give you results. If you go to Nakasero Hospital and test for the same, you get different results. If you go to International Hospital Kampala (IHK), they will give you different results. Where is the problem? When you get issues, they say it is mild pneumonia. They give you a sack of antibiotics. You finish them but the pain comes back. You go to another hospital; it is ulcers, so they give you another sack of antibiotics – (Laughter) – when you finish them, the pain comes back. Mr Speaker, those who can afford go to our neighbour, Aga Khan University Hospital, which takes only 50 minutes from here. They will check you and find you have stage four cancer. My question is: is it the machines? Where do we buy these? Is it the people that read

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to support the motion on the President’s State-of-the-Nation Address. The State-of-the- Nation Address was not just a state of the nation, but a state of socio-economic transformation of our country. It was also not just a speech by the President, but a lecture with evidence-based presentations on the enablers that can help drive our economy tenfold, right from Kole to Kampala. One of the enablers the President talked about was science, technology, and innovation. The recent dry spell is a clear indication that we need to invest in innovations. We need seeds that will not only grow during the rain but also thrive during the dry season. Seeds that will be early maturing and can mature in 30 days instead of the traditional 90 days. These should be seeds that are high-yielding, producing three to five times the expected yield. We need to therefore put investments in innovation as a country. Mr Speaker, innovation is a key driver for economies. When we do not innovate, we will have to import technologies that will disrupt our economies. When you look around now, we used to grow Christmas trees, but now we are using artificial Christmas trees. We used to plant natural flowers for our weddings; now we have artificial flowers. We used to even have papyrus mats made by our grandmothers; now we have plastic mats because innovations in material sciences have disrupted our economies and our local technologies. We need to defend our local technologies and have local policies to strengthen them. As I speak right now, we are also under another threat of disruption. We are now coming into what we no longer call farm-based agriculture but lab-based agriculture, where you do not need a cow to produce milk. You do not need a bull to produce beef. You do not need a chicken to produce eggs. All you need is just a few animal cells and plant cells, grown in a lab, matured in a lab, and you have millions of litres of milk and also tonnes of beef. That is a threat to our economy and it is disruptive technology. They are calling it climate-smart agriculture because you need less than 95 per cent of the land, less than 90 per cent of the water. Unfortunately, these are already in commercial stages; even in the supermarkets abroad, we already have such lab-grown foods. I would like to appeal, therefore, that we strengthen science, technology, innovation in agriculture, support our traditional agricultural systems so that we can meet the global demand, so that we move away from some of these disruptive technologies that can disrupt our economies and affect – (Member timed out.)

we should do away with the third base, which is the 0.5 per cent, or we reduce it to half. What is the implication of reducing by half? A study has been conducted by some Non- Government Organisation (NGO) and MTN, that once we reduce our mobile money charges, we are going to draw a big population into the formal sector and that will widen the tax base. And when we widen the tax base, it means we shall earn more taxes. The study specifically says that we shall be earning Shs 80 billion more above the current earnings if we are to reduce our mobile money rate from 0.5 to 0.025 per cent. Secondly, because of these cash businesses, our people are taking a lot of risk. In Mbale, people travel with big money to Kampala because they do not want to use e-payments. These mobile money charges are affecting the local people more than the middle class because for us as middle-class people, we have alternative payment methods for - (Member timed out-)

Thank you. Hon. Eugenia Nassolo? MS EUGENIA NASSOLO (NUP, Rubaga Division South, Kampala: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to bring to the attention of this august House the need to improve the health sector of Rubaga South and the entire division, which requires our urgent intervention. According to the 2024 national population and housing census, Rubaga is the only division in Kampala without a public referral hospital, yet it is home to 410,400 residents, making it a highly dense urban population.

kings, were captured is in my constituency. That is in Kangai Subcounty. The site is under construction. I must appreciate the Government for doing that. However, a historical site without infrastructural development is not going to work out. When this road is tarmacked, it is going to connect us to other parts of the world. I would also pray, if possible, we connect this road to Alebtong, and from Alebtong, we connect to Otuke. Our people of Otuke can use this road to access medical services from Abim. Those who are far from the Otuke centre go up to Abim General Hospital and Morulem Health Centre III to access medical services. It is a shortcut for us. I personally use that road when I am connecting from Dokolo to Kampala via Nakasongola. Secondly, Mr Speaker, the Head of State mentioned an issue about development of health services. Dokolo Health Centre IV is a referral hospital to us, simply because all the health centre IIIs in the different subcounties refer to this health centre IV. However, the number of patients that are being attended to on daily basis is very high. Bearing in mind that Dokolo Town Council does not have a health centre III, all the residents within the town council move to the health centre IV as their initial facility seeking medical attention. Kongai Subcounty is a new subcounty, and it does not have a Health Centre III, and yet it is a Government policy that all the sub-counties at least would have a Health Centre III. It is my prayer that if this is done, then we shall move forward. Lastly but not least, Mr Speaker, Dokolo Health Centre IV does not have a maternity ward, and this is an alarming situation. They do not have a female ward, yet it is a referral hospital to us. I would pray, if possible, that the concerned ministry, the Ministry of Health, makes an intervention so that we leap forward.

283 Tuesday 14 July 2026 the Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Subsidiary Legislation. Those are two standing committees, and a member can only be on one. I will also withdraw the designation of Hon. Lydia Daphine Mirembe from the Committee on Rules, Privileges and Discipline since she was already designated as the Vice Chairperson to the Committee on Human Rights, which is another standing committee. I also request the Opposition Chief Whip to handle the designation of Hon. Andrew Kiiza Namitego, who was designated to the Committee on Education and Sports and the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, which are both sectoral committees. Hon. John Baptist Nambeshe, at the right time, I will give you space on the Order Paper to do that. You might find that there are a few other changes that you would want to make along the way together with the Government Chief Whip. We shall give you time to do that once the two of you - but I would request that we do that by Thursday, 16 th July 2026. This also gives the opportunity for the Government Chief Whip to designate Hon. Idah Nabayiga, woman MP, Kalangala, to the committee that she should be on. So, let us finish issues of designation and redesignation this week. Honourable colleagues, I have received a letter from the President of the Republic of Uganda IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 9TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.21 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I seek your procedural guidance, and perhaps input, from the Government because certain issues are matters of law. You have talked about issues of fact, and one could even say, fact to person A could be different from person B, but the law is the law regardless of who is dealing with it. Mr Speaker, on Thursday, I left earlier, and I did notify you that I was going to court to secure the release of Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi as one of the sureties, and he was granted bail. The following day, on Friday, while he was en route to Kampala, he was intercepted and taken by armed men in a Toyota Hiace vehicle, popularly known as a “drone”. That was Friday; today is Tuesday. His family and the rest of us, colleague leaders, have been looking for his whereabouts. My questions to the Government are twofold: 1. Where is Hon. Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi? 2. Is this the new normal? It is important that we know. Is this the new normal of how the Government will - they call it - arrest? We call it an abduction. The law stipulates what an arrest is, in Article 23 of our Constitution. The Attorney-General is here; he is a very senior lawyer. In fact, he has lectured most of the lawyers in town. Article 23 is very succinct on how somebody gets to be arrested and where they are taken - to police first – and thereafter produced in court within 48 hours. Mr Speaker, I have seen some people say that Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi was picked up because of a tough speech he gave when he went back to his constituency. That is problematic on two fronts. One, who determines that what he said was illegal? I thought it is a court of law. Let us even imagine, for argument’s sake, that he said anything that is ultra vires . Who determines that? I thought it is a court of law that does. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Let me first mention my name, as this is my maiden speech. My name is Laura Kanushu; I am the National Woman Member of Parliament for Persons with Disabilities. My colleague was asking me why I am putting up my hand. It is because the rules allow me since I am a person with a disability. I just want to start from where Hon. Ndeezi has stopped. We see, at the beginning of the motion - I want to commend Hon. Mapenduzi for that motion. At the beginning, we talk about special needs, but somewhere along the way, we lose it. I think that we need to make that amendment. I also want to say that from the time the affirmative action programme started, persons with disabilities have been at that number. It would only be fair that as we approve this motion, this Parliament is cognisant of the fact that there can never be a more vulnerable student than one with a special need. If there are people who need the sponsorship at universities more than anyone else, it would be the students with disabilities. Therefore, we cannot afford to leave them out, and we also need to increase the number. Lastly, Mr Speaker, while we talk about rural schools, we should also be specific and say public schools or Government schools. I do not think that a poor person can take their child to, for example, Kampala Parents School. Therefore, if they are able to take their child to Kampala Parents School, then they are able to pay at the university. However, the children who go to public schools are the neediest. I would like us to emphasise that the children who will be given more priority should be those that go to UPE and USE schools. I beg to submit. Thank you.

319 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY,14 JULY 2026 into the bond for verification, they are supposed to be valued by customs. However, during that period when the goods are in the bond, each passing day those items attract $60 per day, as demurrage and that depends on the space that you have occupied. It is $60 and above daily. Currently, Mr Speaker, the business community in Kampala have their items and goods stranded at the bond for over a year. Clearing goods takes between six months to one year and they are suffering. They have taken loans and have sold their property, including houses. What I want the honourable minister to clarify or to help us with is, can the line minister inform this House on what action is being taken to avert this delay? How are they tackling this issue because the business community in Kampala is losing a lot of money. I beg to submit, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to support the motion, and I appreciate His Excellency the President for the State of the Nation Address for the Financial Year 2026/2027. The address presented a clear vision of wealth creation, industrialisation, and economic transformation under the theme, “ Kisanja of No More Sleep”. Mr Speaker, the progress highlighted deserves recognition. Uganda’s economy continues to grow, with 67 per cent of households now participating in the money economy, up from only 9 per cent in 1962. However, as the Female Workers’ Representative, appreciation must go hand-in- hand with accountability. First, I recommend that the Government ensure that the Shs 2.2 trillion allocated for agriculture reaches the women farmers who constitute the majority of Uganda’s agriculture workforce. Resources without effective extension services and accountability will not deliver the intended transformation. Second, while the Private Sector is growing, with Kampala startups attracting $30 million in investment in 2025 compared to $4 million in 2024, we must ensure that this growth creates decent jobs, fair wages, and safe working conditions for Ugandan workers, especially the young people and women. Thirdly, the Government has allocated Shs 5.2 trillion for health and Shs 6.6 trillion for education. These are commendable investments. Ugandans will judge the success not only by allocations alone, but also by whether medicines are available in the health facilities, whether teachers and health workers are motivated, and whether service delivery improves. If this is truly the era of no more sleep, then it must be an era of no more corruption, no more inefficiency, and no more exclusion of workers from the benefits of economic growth. In the absence of the Rt Hon. Prime Minister, I would like her, next time she is –(Member timed out.)

Mr Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in thanking the President for a very clear and constructive State of the Nation Address. It is very insightful for the future and exhibits his leadership over the last 40 years. The Members raised a number of questions, and I want to take a few minutes to respond to four specific questions. One was raised by the honourable lady Member of Parliament for Kampala District, that the traders and businessmen and women are complaining about the delays in clearing their imports at the customs points. Ideally, the clearance should take two days, but what we have been able to observe is that some of the importers have no clearance from institutions like the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) or the National Drug Authority (NDA) because of their goods. Getting those clearances adds to the clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). Some have offenses with customs. Some of these issues are the ones that actually delay the importers from clearing the goods at customs. In the context of the President’s vision for import substitution and export promotion, we have been engaging with the traders, especially the importers, to join the industrialisation agenda. To take advantage of opportunities that we have like Uganda Development Bank (UDB) and others, to be able to join the manufacturing sector. Honourable colleagues, the industrialisation agenda is one of the surest ways to create jobs, pay taxes, and pave the way to achieving the $500 billion economy in the next 14 days. The second point was the issue of Karamoja by our colleague, Hon. Remegio. I know the Prime Minister will touch on one aspect of water – (Interruption)

I welcome everyone and look forward to associating and interacting with IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 8TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.26 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. For the record, my name is Zahrah Luyirika, Member of Parliament for Makindye West and the shadow Minister for Kampala. On that note, I rise to seek clarification from the Attorney-General. Allow me to draw the Members’ attention to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) (Amended) Act, 2020, in which Sections 38, 39, 40, and 41 were designed to work in tandem for the good governance of the capital city. The Attorney-General has given a brief about the elections, and now we are in the process. He has talked about the ward and cells (village) administration, but skipped a very important matter in the KCCA Act about the street committee’s constitution. That is, Section 41 of the KCCA Act. I request to understand whether the Government rendered that section irrelevant in the Act or if they intend to operationalise it in the meantime. If so, can we know when they can give us feedback such that that matter is not rendered irrelevant?

297 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 09 JULY 2026 can resolve them accordingly. Many of them have been ongoing for a while. The previous administration keeps mentioning them, but the physical engagement on the ground sometimes does not come to light. So, honourable members, you are going to hear from us officially. For some who had already communicated to us before today’s communication, the senior minister is on the ground, besides resolving issues of corruption, also engaging with and addressing boundary disputes. We actually have a meeting tomorrow for the Bugisu subregion, at 2:00 p.m., and part of the agenda is boundary disputes. On the issue of politicians intimidating candidates from other political parties, which my good friend, the Haji from Luwero, raised, I would decry that as well. Personally, as the Minister of State for Local Government and Woman MP for Masaka City, I have about five paid announcements on CBS. The announcements are clearly telling people, “Go and vote for good citizens to be your LCI chairpersons, no matter the political party.” That is what my announcements are saying, yet I am a member of the NRM and even a woman MP on the NRM ticket. Therefore, if the Minister of State for Local Government can encourage people to embrace good Ugandans, whether they are from other political parties, I do not think any other politician should be intimidating our people that, as a must, by hook or crook, they must vote members of a given political party. I kindly urge the honourable member who raised this matter, this is a serious matter bordering on crime, to provide us with that evidence so that we can engage the political leader who is intimidating people. It is a crime. Mr Speaker, the honourable Woman MP of Wakiso raised the issue of men with more than one wife regarding exactly where they would vote. With more than one wife, like Hon. Nsamba is saying, living in different LCs, he is probably an authority on the topic. These men will have to choose exactly where to live. In law, the Attorney-General could back that up, but I think in law we have what they call a principal holding. So, the Haji will have to decide, okay, even if it is a Christian who has many wives, they will have to decide – (Interjections)- the Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs is saying the men should choose the younger wife. She is probably the younger wife in her arrangement. The issue on the elections of LC I majorly surrounds the factor of residence. Where do you live? Where is your residence? If that husband chooses his principal holding or residence, he will have to be registered in that area. The Attorney-General will expound on what the law says about those who might want to vote in more than one area, but I suppose that is criminal. He will expound on it. Mr Speaker, we have a major issue that I even heard Ugandans debating on the radio, and I welcome the Members of Parliament who have brought it to light in this House. The issue is villages with schools located in those areas, especially in the urban centres. Now, we do not want a situation where a candidate is going to use the numerical strength of schools to unfairly overpower a genuine leader, an organic leader from the village. For example, I intervened in an issue in Kumbu, Masaka, where someone wanted to register students from a certain university so they could come and vote for that particular chairman. However, some of these students come from far as Tanzania, Kampala, and Mbarara to study at that university. In one or two years, those students will be gone, and the village will be stuck with a bad candidate as a result of unfair numerical strength from aliens. Therefore, the village chairperson and the village leadership shall be voted for strictly by residents of that village. Members of Parliament and honourable colleagues, I kindly request that in case this august House permits a time for recess or a break, please use it to pass on this information that the people who are going to vote for the

Mr Speaker, the extension would have financial implications. Secondly, maybe to combine this issue with the question someone asked earlier about civic education. The Electoral Commission has been running programmes through radio stations in our areas. We believe the people are aware. In all honesty, I do not think there is a Member of Parliament who needs more than 24 hours to travel from here to his/her place. It is possible that any of us can leave Kampala tomorrow, go to Moroto and register at their place if they think they should register from their constituency.

Mr Speaker, we got a petition sometime back and the Ministry of Education and Sports is mapping and coming up with an idea of getting land in Entebbe Municipality where we shall put the school. That area and Kawempe in Kampala. There is no school in Kawempe, I do not know where Hon. Madina is, but she brought a petition to the President and the President directed that we identify land where we can put up a school. People in Kawempe do not have a school. They travel for almost 14 kilometres. Because they did not have a Member of Parliament who approaches us, and now that Hon. Madina is here, we are going to handle it. (Laughter)

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. For the record, I am Ismail Kasule, the Whip of the Alliance for National Transformation. Mr Speaker, I understand there are different projects going on, but which are not football- related, though they are to supplement the AFCON 2027 that Uganda is going to host together with the other countries, Kenya and Tanzania. My attention is drawn to the infrastructure projects like roads, hospitals and hotels, especially in areas where the tournament will take place like Hoima, Masindi, Lira and Kampala. I wish to the Prime Minister to inform us on the progress of the projects that are not football related but are crucial for AFCON to take place. Thank you very much.

Mr Speaker, I know the issue. That is an area where I also hail from. There have been conflicts in Hoima District because big people from here in Kampala invaded it because of the oil discovery. Because of the effects of oil, people have taken it upon themselves to grab land from the poor people. What have we done? The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development has been to that area many times. A number of steps have come up. The President was also involved. There is some progress. I request the Member, because the village called Buraru that she is talking about - I was there myself. Maybe there are other things that are - I think I will need to get in touch with my sister and we see what other new things have come up.

Mr Speaker, Hon. Sumayah Nabawanuka is a neighbour. When there is a shutdown in Mubende, it affects us in Kakumiro. The fact is that there has been an unprecedented shutdown of power in that corridor. This is caused by the old power line. We had come up with a strategy to install more transformers because the towns are growing. Mubende has exploded; it has the biggest population now in that part of the country. So, there is need for us to put more transformers. Madam, ndi ku gwe. Ngenda kulagira. We need more transformers and to remove the old poles because they are always down. This will enbale our people to have reliable power supply. It is not there, that is a fact. Kindly go to the ministry and tell the minister that there is need and because of this transition from Umeme, they never used to look after their power lines. It is not only in Mubende but also here in Kampala where we are staying. Therefore, there is need for us to do exactly what I have told you.

Rt Hon. Prime Minister and honourable members, I welcome you to today’s sitting. As I was about to come to this House, Hon. Mapenduzi gave me very sad news that last night, a bus belonging to OPIT Travellers Company, traveling from Kampala to Gulu, had a head-on collision with an Actros trailer at Bobi at around 9.30 p.m. According to preliminary reports from Gulu police, 15 people have been confirmed dead and 24 sustained injuries. I know the Rt Hon. Prime Minister usually intervenes, and the Government knows what to do. Road safety is a very big issue. We have lost colleagues here before; we have lost relatives; we have lost our constituents; many people. It is an issue to which all of us need to come and put our hands together to see how best we can promote road safety. In the meantime, honourable colleagues, I request that we stand up and observe a minute of silence for the victims. (Members observed a moment of silence.)

Honourable colleagues, our system for clocking in is working. We are now taking cognisance of your presence in the House. Please, do not enter the House without registering. The systems are near the door and you know the repercussions IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 7TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.18 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS The oaths were administered to: 1. Ms Idah Nabayiga

239 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 08 JULY 2026 and diabetes. They can also check your eyes to see whether your eyesight is okay because there are those drivers who cannot see during the night. Therefore, let us advise our communities to take advantage of the already existing facilities in our regional referral hospitals. Secondly, on the Kampala-Gulu Highway where we lost 64 lives, I request my brother to provide me with a list of the deceased, the next of kin, their contacts, the districts where they come from, and the villages where they were buried. Then, we shall take it to the President. Our President is a parent, and he will definitely support those families with Shs 5 million, and Shs 1 million for those who went for treatment. However, for those that sought treatment, we will need evidence to see they were treated in the hospitals. Mr Speaker, I beg to submit.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker, for the guidance. But I only wanted to find out if we intend to have any other sources of borrowing, if anything goes wrong between South Africa and Uganda. Thank you for the guidance. I also want the minister to come out strongly: have the governments of Uganda, particularly Kampala, and Pretoria been in any discussions to ensure the control and restoration of the security of persons and property of Ugandans?

ICT and digital transformation The Opposition shares the Government’s aspiration for a digitally connected Uganda. On that, we also agree, but digital transformation must be measured by whether citizens can access affordable internet and whether technology genuinely improves service delivery and accountability, not by systems launched or fibre laid. Mr Speaker, I will now keep skipping a few things here and there. Let me move to works and transport. Works and Transport Honourable members, the Head of State highlighted investment in roads and the Standard Gauge Railway(SGR), but did not pay sufficient attention to the maintenance crisis that is consuming what has already been built. The parliamentary Committee on Physical Infrastructure reported on the Integrated Transport Infrastructure System(ITIS), showing that over 95 per cent of national, municipal, and town council roads are in poor condition, with transport costs accounting for up to 40 per cent of Uganda’s total exports. This is a challenge that we need to address as well. The Auditor-General identified 14 transferred road projects worth Shs 1.8 trillion that stalled under the UNRA mainstreaming exercise, while KCCA’s allocation was cut by 14.56 per cent, even as absorption fell to 22.7 per cent under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Program, leaving KCCA facing a road funding gap of about Shs 45 billion. What would we like to see? Number one, restoration of the transport arrears budget to at least Shs 300 billion with a binding three-year clearance schedule approved by Parliament. And this money is for all our constituencies. Number two, quarterly audited progress reports on the ITIS programme tabled before the relevant parliamentary committee. Number three, real accountability for non- performers. Uganda needs roads that last, rails that move cargo, and falling transport costs. Not promises while contractors go unpaid and roads deteriorate. Let me talk about local government and service delivery. I saw the honourable Minister of Local Government around. Mr Speaker, the quality of Government is judged not at the centre of power but where citizens actually live. The Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury(PSST) acknowledged, in February of 2026, that more than a third of all public spending flows through local governments and that the Government fails to deliver services where citizens live if internal audit fails at that level. The Auditor- General’s annual report shows this is already the present reality. The Parish Development Model(PDM), which is the Government’s flagship programme to alleviate poverty, is the most attractive case study in this case. Of Shs 3.26 trillion released

Tuesday, 7 July 2026 I also congratulate Her Excellency, the Vice- President, the Rt Hon. Prime Minister and the ministers for catching the eye of His Excellency, the President and making it to Cabinet. (Applause) Allow me to sincerely thank you for electing me to be your Deputy Speaker for the 12 th Parliament. (Applause) I cannot take it for granted because there are many who, I think, are even much better than me in doing this job, but you chose me. I promise to give it my all to ensure we have a House that is doing what it is supposed to do. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, in the VIP Gallery this afternoon, we have the Rt Rev. Assoc. Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Angkole Diocese and East African Revival Diocese. He has come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please join me in welcoming him. (Applause ) My Lord Bishop, thank you. Also, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have student interns from different universities across Uganda who have been attached to different departments of Parliament. They have come to see how we do our business. Kindly join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, I wish to invite all of you to participate in the East African Community (EAC) Parliamentary Week, scheduled to take place from 8 th to 10 th July 2026, at the Parliament of Uganda Conference Hall. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 6TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.20 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Teyebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

130 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 Thursday, 11 June 2026 Budget for the Financial Year 2026/2027; and 2. The Kololo Ceremonial Grounds to be precincts of Parliament for the above- mentioned purpose. Given under my able hand at Parliament House, Kampala, this 11 th day of June 2026.” ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS

Your Excellency the President, Rt Hon. Speaker and honourable members, on 28 May 2026, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda appointed a new Cabinet. Among those appointed were non-members of Parliament who were duly approved by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee and sworn in as ministers. In order for them to discharge their duties as ministers, they are required by law to become ex-officio Members of Parliament by virtue of Article 78(1)(d) of the Constitution and are required under Article 81(4) of the Constitution to take and subscribe to the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament. The said members are ready to take and subscribe to the oaths. May I therefore request your permission, Mr Speaker, to invite them for the aforementioned purpose. They are: 1) Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Public Service. Please come forward. 2) Hon. Ssebugwawo Joyce Juliet Nabbosa, IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 5TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.57 p.m. in Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala. The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. PROCLAMATION

135 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 11 JUNE 2026 Regional Integration and Economic Resilience Through Improved Regional Security, Domestic Revenue Mobilisation, and Digital Transformation for Inclusive Growth”. I now come to the recent economic performance and outlook. Mr Speaker, despite geopolitical tensions, global trade disruptions, and continued uncertainty in the world economy, Uganda’s economic outlook remains strong and positive. The economy is stable, growth is accelerating, inflation is low, the exchange rate is stable, exports are rising, investment is increasing, and confidence in Uganda’s future remains strong. Mr Speaker, Uganda’s economy continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and dynamism. Economic growth for the Financial Year 2025/2026 is estimated at 6.4 per cent, up from 6.3 per cent in the Financial Year 2024/2025. The size of the economy is projected to increase to approximately $69.3 billion, equivalent to Shs 250.4 trillion by the end of June 2026. In purchasing power parity terms, Uganda’s GDP is estimated to be $197.1 billion. GDP per capita is projected to increase to $1,420, equivalent to approximately Shs 5.1 million per person. Mr Speaker, with the commercial oil production commencing later this calendar year, growth is projected to accelerate to 10.2 per cent in Financial Year 2026/2027. This will mark Uganda’s first return to double-digit growth since the reforms of the 1990s. Most importantly, a larger economy will accelerate more jobs, raise household incomes, expand opportunities for businesses, and generate the resources required to invest in quality education, health care, infrastructure, security, and other public services that improve the lives of Ugandans. This performance confirms that our strategy of investing in security, infrastructure, wealth creation, and productive sectors is delivering results. I thank His Excellency the President for his steadfast leadership, strategic guidance, and insistence on phased prioritisation. Mr Speaker, I wish to repeat this one. This performance confirms our strategy of investing in security, infrastructure, wealth creation and productive sectors is delivering results. I thank His Excellency the President for his steadfast leadership, strategic guidance, and insistence on phased prioritisation. Colleagues, I invite you to give His Excellency the President a round of applause. (Applause) I now come to inflation. Mr Speaker, inflation remains low and stable. Average inflation during the Financial Year 2025/2026 is estimated at 3.8 per cent compared to 3.5 per cent recorded in the previous financial year. This stability has been supported by effective coordination between fiscal and monetary policy, stable food prices, and improved management of fuel supply. Low inflation protects household incomes and supports business planning, and strengthens investor confidence. The Government remains committed to maintaining price stability as a cornerstone of sustained economic growth. Mr Speaker, the strength of an economy is reflected not only in how much it produces, but also in the confidence it inspires among investors, visitors, citizens at home and abroad. I am pleased to report that confidence in Uganda’s economy continues to grow. Foreign direct investment remains strong at $3.2 billion in the 12 months ending March 2026. This reflects growing investor confidence in Uganda’s economy. Of even greater significance, investors are increasingly expressing interest in Uganda’s small and medium enterprises. Kampala- based start-ups attracted about $30 million in 2025, up from just $4 million a year before. This surge signals growing confidence in Uganda’s innovation ecosystem and affirms our emergence as a destination for entrepreneurship, technology and investment.

138 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 Accountability for Financial Year 2025/2026 and priorities for Financial Year 2026/2027 Mr Speaker, when the Budget for Financial Year 2025/2026 was presented last year, the Government made several commitments aimed at accelerating monetisation of the economy and implementing the Tenfold Growth Strategy. The Budget focused on three broad areas: i) Wealth creation programmes; ii) Strategic investments in the ATMs; and iii) Investment in key enablers of growth. I am pleased to report that substantial progress has been made in all three areas above. Wealth creation Mr Speaker, the foundation of Uganda’s economic transformation is ensuring that every Ugandan participates in the money economy. The Government, therefore, has continued to invest in programmes that expand access to affordable capital, strengthen enterprise development and increase household incomes. To date, the Government has invested close to Shs 11 trillion directly into wealth- creation initiatives targeting households in the subsistence economy, farmers, youth, women and businesses. These interventions are reducing barriers to participation in economic activity, while expanding opportunities across the country. Let me highlight what we have done in the flagship wealth creation programmes. Parish Development Model (PDM) Mr Speaker, the Parish Development Model remains Government’s most important intervention for eliminating subsistence and expanding participation in the money economy. I wish to thank his Excellency the President for his vision and unwavering commitment to this programme. PDM is not merely a financing programme; it is a structure transformation programme. Its objective is to move households from subsistence to commercial production; from survival to enterprise; and from poverty to prosperity. Over the past five years, the Government has transferred Shs 4.4 trillion to all 10,589 parishes nationwide as revolving capital. Ugandans who were previously outside the money economy are now engaged in money- making enterprises. By the end of this month, PDM funds will have reached over 4 million beneficiaries. The PDM is raising household incomes, improving food security and creating local economic opportunities for Ugandans who previously relied on subsistence production. Mr President, thank you for your visionary leadership. (Applause) The next phase of the PDM will focus on boosting productivity, strengthening value addition and improving market access for the PDM beneficiaries. My ministry will seek policy guidance to ensure that the underserved and densely populated parishes, particularly in urban areas, receive adequate funding. Equally important, we will begin a gradual, deliberate transition from Government transfers to a self- sustaining financial ecosystem; ultimately, a PDM bank underpinned by strong repayment performance, governance and value-chain development. Other wealth-creation programmes Mr Speaker, in addition to the PDM, Government has continued supporting enterprise development through other wealth funds, namely: i) Emyooga : Government has capitalised the programme with Shs 760 billion in revolving funds. To date, 7,148 Emyooga SACCOs have been established, with over 2.48 million members and cumulative savings of Shs 95.3 billion. An additional Shs 100 billion has been allocated in the Financial Year 2026/2027. ii) Katale Loan Facility: The Government, through the Microfinance Support Centre, introduced this wealth fund to expand access to affordable working capital for market vendors and urban informal operators. It is currently piloted in six major markets within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, and will be rolled out nationwide

145 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 11 JUNE 2026 artists to serve as a common user facility for young talents to create wealth and jobs. The priorities for Financial Year 2026/2027 under STI, ICT, and Creatives are the following: Mr Speaker, Shs 1.140 trillion has been provided in the new budget for Science, Technology, Innovation, ICT, and the Creative Industries. The priorities next financial year include: i) Commercialisation of innovations, especially Kiira Motor vehicles, coffee, Dei BioPharma drugs, vaccines and banana products; ii) Establishment of a Hi-tech city; iii) Additional investment in science research and innovation; iv) Expansion of digital infrastructure to increase coverage, reliability, and affordability of internet, government services, and e-commerce; v) Growth of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) for job creation; vi) Expanding the free-to-air TV signal; and vii. Strengthening intellectual property protection. Enablers Mr Speaker, the Government also continued to invest in the key enablers of socio-economic transformation in line with the NDP IV and the Tenfold Growth Strategy. These include human capital development, infrastructure, security and the rule of law, as well as domestic revenue mobilisation to finance the transformation agenda. Enabler 1: Peace, security and rule of law Mr Speaker, peace, security and rule of law are the foundations of development. Without peace, you cannot create prosperity. Without security and the rule of law, there is no investment. Without stability, there is no growth. I wish to repeat this: Without peace, you cannot create prosperity. Without security and rule of law, there is no investment. Without stability, there is no growth. The Government has continued to invest in security, justice and governance institutions. This financial year, the following milestones have been achieved: i) Government continued strengthening security infrastructure, intelligence services and operational capacity while improving the welfare of our security personnel in the UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons and intelligence services. ii) Uganda remains one of the region’s most stable countries. Despite being an election year, reported crimes fell by 10.2 per cent from 218,715 cases in 2024 to 196,405 in 2025; reducing the crime rate from 502 to 427 per 1,000 people. iii) Uganda continued to contribute to regional peace and security through the African Union and UN peace support operations in Somalia alongside military deployments in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and other places. iv) The 275-bed National Referral Military Hospital in Mbuya, Kampala is now operational. It attends to an average of 150 patients per day for services including dialysis, dental care, physiotherapy and ENT. v) Construction of the UPDF military headquarters in Mbuya is 70 per cent complete. In addition, over 230 housing units and new administrative blocks for the Air Force and Marines are under construction to enhance personnel welfare and operational efficiency. vi) Government provided over Shs 1.697 trillion to the relevant institutions to organise the recently concluded successful general elections. vii) Mass enrolment and issuance of national identity cards progressed well. The total population identified with the National

146 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 Identification Number (NIN) is 34.14 million. Renewals were 13.85 million, cards printed were 14.67 million and cards issued to the population were 6.2 million. Beyond securing elections and supporting national security, the national ID has improved access to public services, broadened financial inclusion and eased travel within the East African Community. viii) Cattle restocking has begun in Acholi, Lango and Teso, targeting 16,000 households, each receiving Shs 5 million to purchase two bulls and three heifers. To date, 2,000 households have been compensated. Financial Year 2026/2027 priorities for security, governance and rule of law are the following Mr Speaker, the Government has allocated Shs 10.21 trillion to security, governance and rule of law institutions for the Financial Year 2026/2027 and the priority interventions include: i) Continued modernisation, training and welfare of the UPDF. ii) Full equipping of the National Referral Military Hospital and completion of the UPDF Headquarters. iii) Strengthening of broader security, counterterrorism and regional peace support operations. iv) Enhancing community policing, crime intelligence, forensics and CCTV coverage. v) Cyber security and protection of critical national infrastructure. vi) Improving immigration services, NIN/ID enrolment and e-passport issuance. vii) Fighting against corruption. viii) Continued cattle restocking in the Acholi, Lango and Teso subregions. Enabler 2: Infrastructure development Mr Speaker, transport infrastructure is the bone marrow of the economy. It connects farmers to markets, workers to jobs, and industries to inputs while linking exporters to regional and global markets. Electricity powers industrialisation and drives economic transformation. In the Financial Year 2025/2026, the Government achieved the following infrastructure development: Roads and bridges i) Government continued with the construction of 24 major roads totalling approximately 1,154 kilometres and rehabilitated a further 949 kilometres of national roads. ii) Government continued developing 14 strategic bridges to enhance connectivity, improve access to socioeconomic services and support the movement of goods and people within and across regions. iii) Government stepped up maintenance of national road network. Over 7,400 kilometres of paved and 14,000 kilometres of unpaved roads were maintained through labour-based contracts and a further 1,282 kilometres of paved and 3,146 kilometres of unpaved roads were looked after under routine mechanised maintenance. iv) Government opened 124 kilometres, graded 175 kilometres and gravelled 64 kilometres of District, Urban and Community Access Roads (DUCAR) using the Force Account. v) Local governments maintained 2,700 kilometres of District Urban and Community Access Roads; upgraded and maintained 820 kilometres of city and municipal roads, and rehabilitated 120 kilometres of district roads. Development of Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) Infrastructure i. Mr Speaker, the Government has embarked on revamping road infrastructure in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. The target is to upgrade over 600 kilometres in the next five years and to maintain all major existing roads.

147 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 11 JUNE 2026 ii. To date, 297 kilometres of roads have been paved, several roads have been rehabilitated and maintained, and eight major road junctions have been signalled to improve traffic flow and road safety. iii. Mr Speaker, Kampala made history as the first city in Africa to be inducted into the International Network of Tree Cities in the world. The Government will continue building on this heritage and global recognition. iv. In this regard, the Government has prioritised implementation of a clean- up exercise involving restoration of wetlands and green spaces, enforcing integrated physical planning including pedestrian-friendly roads, enforcing trade order and restrictions on all forms of pollution, especially noise. Water transport Mr Speaker, the Government has constructed, maintained and operated 15 ferries to connect island communities to markets and services. The Buyende-Kagwara-Kaberamaido (BKK) ferry has commenced operations. Two ferries on Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale are under construction and are expected to begin service by June 2027. Preliminary works for the Bukasa inland port are nearly complete, paving the way for the commencement of the actual construction. Railway transport Mr Speaker, the Government has commenced construction of the 273-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway from Malaba to Kampala. Upon completion, container transport costs from Mombasa to Kampala are projected to fall from about $3,500 to roughly $ 1,600 and transit time from five days to one day. Rehabilitation of the Tororo-Gulu Meter Gauge Railway reached 66 per cent completion, while the Kampala-Mukono section has been completed. Air transport Mr Speaker, about air transport: a) Physical works for Kabalega International Airport are complete. The Government is now finalising operational requirements to get the airport ready for the first oil and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027. b) Construction of Kidepo International Airport is underway to boost tourism in Karamoja. c) Phase I of Entebbe International Airport’s rehabilitation and expansion is complete. With a new passenger terminal and expanded cargo facility, the passenger terminal capacity has risen from 2.0 million to 3.5 million travellers per year. d) Twelve regional aerodromes have been maintained to support regional connectivity for tourism and trade. e) The Government is strengthening Uganda Airlines as critical transport infrastructure to enhance international connectivity for tourism, trade, investment, and the diaspora. In order to enhance operational efficiency, expand and modernise the fleet, the Government is further capitalising the airline by acquiring eight additional new passenger aircraft. The Financial Year 2026/2027 priorities for transport Mr Speaker, Shs 8.79 trillion has been allocated next financial year for transport infrastructure development. The priority areas will include: i. Construction of the Malaba-Kampala Standard Gauge Railway and completion of rehabilitation of the meter gauge railway. ii. Construction, upgrade and maintenance of national, city, district, urban and community access roads. iii. Construction and maintenance of strategic bridges. iv. Development of water transport systems such as ferries and ports. v. Operationalisation of Kabalega International Airport and continued upgrade of regional aerodromes. vi. Expansion of the Uganda Airlines.

148 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 Energy development Mr Speaker, reliable and affordable energy is essential for industrialisation and socioeconomic transformation. The Government continues to invest heavily in electricity generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure. In the Financial Year 2025/2026, the Government achieved the following in energy development: a) Continued development of hydro, solar and other energy projects alongside preparatory work for future nuclear investments. Installed generation capacity now stands at 2,098 megawatts. The Government’s medium- to long-term target is 52,482 megawatts to support industrialisation, urbanisation and economic growth. b) Completed and continued construction of multiple lines, including the Kole-Gulu- Nebbi-Arua line 132 KV, the Kampala Metropolitan transmission line 132 KV, including two associated mobile substations, Mbarara, Kabarole 132 KV, Karuma-Tororo 400 KV, Tororo resource 400 KV, Mutundwe-Entebbe 132 KV and Lira-Gulu-Agago 132 KV. Good progress has also been made on substations serving industrial parks in Mbarara, Kapeeka, and the Kabalega Petrochemical Industrial Park. c) The share of households in rural areas connected to grid electricity has nearly doubled in the three years from 6.8 per cent in the Financial Year 2021/2022 to 11.4 per cent in the Financial Year 2024/2025. d) Through the Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company, Government commenced construction of four small mini-hydro power sites expected to generate 5 megawatts of electricity. These sites will be completed in March 2027 and will provide reliable power to very hard- to-reach and remote areas. Further, under the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project, 419,592 off-grid solar connections have been made countrywide. Financial Year 2026/2027 Priorities for the Energy Sector Mr Speaker, the Government has allocated Shs 2.07 trillion to energy development and the priority interventions include: i) Expansion of generation capacity by commencing the 380-megawatt Kiba hydro-electricity plant, a floating solar plant at Isimba, and 500 megawatts of utility scale solar in the Elgon and Acholi subregions; ii) Preparatory work for nuclear energy generation at Buyende; iii) Expansion of transmission and associated substation infrastructure; iv) Rural electrification; and v) Industrial power connections. Investing in People Mr Speaker, economic transformation is ultimately about people. A healthy, educated, skilled and productive population is indispensable for sustained growth and shared prosperity. That is why the Government continues to allocate a large share of the discretionary budget to human capital development, i.e. health, education, water and sanitation, and social protection. During Financial Year 2025/2026, the following milestones were achieved: Health Under health, Mr Speaker, the Government sustained its policy of progressively increasing investment in essential medicines and health supplies. Accordingly, funding through the National Medical Stores was increased by Shs 145.33 billion to Shs 862.93 billion in Financial Year 2025/2026. The Government will continue to increase domestic financing for essential health commodities with the aim of substantially

149 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 11 JUNE 2026 reducing reliance on donor support. This will guarantee uninterrupted access to essential medicines like anti-retroviral medicines, anti-malarial drugs, vaccines, immunisation supplies, laboratory commodities and anti- tuberculosis medicines. The Government continued to modernise healthcare infrastructure and equipment. During the year, 17 regional referral hospitals and 25 general hospitals were equipped with Neonatal Intensive Care Units. In addition, 14 regional referral hospitals received CT scan machines. Construction and upgrading of 31 health facilities across Karamoja is ongoing. The Government also completed high-capacity medical waste incinerators in Fort Portal, Gulu, Mbarara, KCCA and Lira. Busolwe, Gombe and Kawolo hospitals were also rehabilitated. Mr Speaker, the Government continued to promote preventive healthcare through immunisation, disease prevention and nutrition programmes. Immunisation coverage for children under one year reached 94 per cent, while first-dose measles-rubella coverage reached 93 per cent. Government also conducted nationwide campaigns against malaria, HIV/AIDS, Ebola, cholera and yellow fever, and promoted nutrition education for children, pregnant women, the elderly and other vulnerable groups. Government also continued to expand specialised healthcare services in oncology, cardiology and other fields, reducing the need for treatment abroad. The Uganda Heart Institute conducted 634 cardiac interventions, including open-heart, closed-heart, vascular and catheterisation procedures. In April 2026, the Uganda Cancer Institute successfully performed the country’s first bone marrow transplant. Specialised healthcare services will be further strengthened by ongoing investments. The 250-bed capacity Cardiac Hospital in Naguru, Kampala is 44 per cent complete and expected to be completed by June 2027. The International Specialised Hospital of Uganda at Lubowa is 75 per cent complete and will be completed in December 2027. (Applause) Mr Speaker, I wish to repeat this one: The International Specialised Hospital of Uganda at Lubowa is 75 per cent complete and will be completed in December 2027. (Applause) The first phase of the Nuclear Medicine (PET) Centre for cancer treatment is 95 per cent complete with radiotherapy and advanced molecular imaging services. Phase II of the PET centre is 10 per cent complete. Regional cancer centres in Mbarara, Arua and Mbale are under construction, while the Gulu centre is fully operational. Other achievements in the health sector include: a) Expansion of the National e-Health Digital Infrastructure to support telemedicine, health information management, medicine tracking and monitoring of health worker performance; and b) Strengthening the National Ambulance and Emergency Care System through the deployment of additional ambulances. 2026/2027 Priorities for Health The Government has allocated Shs 5.23 trillion for the health sector in Financial Year 2026/2027. The funding will focus on: i) Maternal and child health; ii) Nutrition improvement; iii) Expanded immunisation; iv) Prevention and treatment of non- communicable diseases; v) Provision of essential medicines; vi) Strengthening specialised healthcare services; vii) Improving emergency response systems; and viii) Exploring feasible pathways towards universal health coverage.

158 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 political and state leaders, the religious leaders, the cultural leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and all Ugandans. You have heard how the economy is performing well in spite of many problems in the world. The economy is performing well because Uganda is a very rich country. We have got a lot of potential. I saw one of the people who likes writing things here and there trying to say that we are targeting many areas of support. I think he was trying to say that in South Korea, they concentrated on electronics and vehicles. However, this is because South Korea did not have much. They instead concentrated on the little they had. For us, we have what South Korea has, even more. That is why I do not listen so much to people who are running around panicking and so on. What is crucial is clarity, here within Uganda, about our potential. The next most important thing is the African market, because when you produce, you must sell. Africa is our sure market, and then we can add other markets. This 6.4 per cent growth is really still modest. As you heard, next year the growth will go to 10.2 per cent because of petroleum. As you heard, the performance is good by world standards but in my view, it can be stronger. I come from indigenous communities of this place, and I have been following our developments very closely for 65 years. What you need to know is that the aim of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) is not just growth, but transformation; socio-economic transformation. It is now - before I talk about other things, I want us to solve this small problem of Ebola. Ebola is a very simple disease. It is not like COVID-19, as I said last night. COVID-19 was very dangerous because it was spreading through breathing, which meant that if you sat - The other time, I got COVID-19 from you people in Kyankwanzi when I took a group photograph with you people without my mask. I got it, and I was here for 21 days sitting in the house. COVID-19 was really dangerous. It was spreading through breathing but this Ebola spreads only through close contact with sweat, vomit, blood, sexual; by exchanging saliva through kissing, when the person is already sick but not showing symptoms of sickness. Therefore, it can be stopped. We just need to get rid of the carelessness. As I told you last night, we have had 19 cases so far; 14 from our brothers in the Democratic Republic of Congo who came - Two died. But for those who came early, four of the Congolese them have already recovered and they have been discharged. The others are also recovering. Our people think no more of them will die. The two people who died were Congolese from the 14. The five Ugandans who were infected were four health workers in one of the Kampala hospitals, who handled the sick people without taking precautions. That is how four of them were infected. Carelessness. The fifth one, a Ugandan, was a taxi driver who drove the sick man from Hoima to Kampala. I do not know whether he was greeting him or what, because just driving, if he sits in his chair and you sit in yours, why should he infect you? But fortunately, that driver has now recovered. So, of the five who recovered, four are Congolese, one is a Ugandan, while the two who died were all our Congolese brothers. In the last five days, there has not been a new case. (Applause) This is very simple. I really do not like people who do not take life seriously because if you want to achieve anything, you must be very serious with your life. Part of life is health. If you have got health, you can be able to do what you want to do. The other day I was here, I saw you shaking hands, hugging. Imagine Members of Parliament setting a bad example for all these Africans to get sick and then go to hospitals and so on, or even die. I want to use this occasion to appeal to all Ugandans to solve this small problem of Ebola.

161 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 11 JUNE 2026 come. Maracha, people are – I do not know what happened there. I was in Bukwo or Kween, I think it was Kween, and it was the same problem. Here in Kampala, Kawempe and Buwambo, PDM money was being stolen. What is the Member of Parliament doing? Even the Opposition ones. The ones of the NRM, I will struggle with them, but even the Opposition ones, as long as you are getting an allowance from Parliament and you do not go to check what is happening, I will ask the Attorney-General to see how I can deal with you. If you do not want to monitor, do not take the allowances. Say so. Go to the Clerk - But then why should you get a salary in the first place? It seems I have got a legal basis where to demand performance from both the NRM and also the Opposition. As long as you are getting money from the Government, you must check, because some of the Opposition say – they do it maliciously. They say, let the programmes not work so that the NRM is blamed. That is not good enough for you because these programmes are not for NRM; they are for your own people. Therefore, this service delivery: the drugs in the health centres, justice, corruption, security, law and order. The infrastructure of leadership is there. Member of Parliament for every constituency, LC III for every subcounty. Those are paid. The ones who are not paid, like the LC II, I do not want to blame them so much. However, the LC III, the Members of Parliament, the councillors are all paid people, and they have to monitor. Local government must monitor – the Chief Administrative Officer. That is why I put in local government – some people have been saying they are cantankerous, quarrelsome, like Hon. Barugahara and Hon. Nameere. Hon. Nameere is famous for quarrelling, so you go and quarrel with - ( Laughter ) When I went to Masaka to defend Hon. Nameere, because I had to go there, they said, “ Oyo omwana oba bamukuza batya, talina mpisa .” I said that if the lack of mpisa is to - because in Uganda, if you see a thief and call them a thief, they say tolina mpisa. They say you should have kept quiet. They call that mpisa . This is how you are going to destroy the country. Please, both for the economy but also for service delivery, the leaders must do their work. Fortunately, apart from this money which Hon. Musasizi is getting from all those taxes, we are going to get oil money. Government will be getting an extra $1.5 billion per year as its share of Government money. I will discuss with you how to save this money, first of all, to create a sovereign fund so that it can earn money because that is how some countries like Norway have used their money well. Instead of using it to buy perfumes and whiskies, they put their money somewhere and it gains interest. We need to use some of it to do the crucial infrastructure like the railway. We need to have the railway with Kenya, Tanzania, Congo, South Sudan and Rwanda, the ones near us, so that all heavy cargo moves from the road to the railway. Then the petroleum products move from the road to the pipeline. That will leave only the light cargo and passengers on the road. The economics there - you heard Hon. Musasizi telling you that it will bring down the cost of transport of cargo from 3,000 to something much less. I am saying all this so that we harmonise and do not have to waste time arguing, because sometimes we waste time. We have done well, but we can do much better. Uganda is a rich country. Finally, I will get time and talk about the environment and the trade order where we had to remove some of our people from the road sides and all that chaos, which was here. I want you people to support this. Do not go on with the cheap politics of misleading our people because a country is like a human body. This human body has got many systems, which must work in the way God designed them. There are whole systems aiding how you breathe, blood gets circulated, seeing, eating and hearing. Each system is separate but coordinated by the command post; the brain. The systems are diverse, specialised, but coordinated.

Congratulations, Hon. Atim, also known as “Mama Mabira”. Please come, sign, and get a copy of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament and the Constitution. Again, welcome back home. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 4TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 10.11 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS

Shadow Minister for Health. (Applause) Hon. Denes Sekabira, Member of Parliament for Katikamu County North - Shadow Minister for Internal Affairs. (Applause) Hon. Betty Naluyima, District Woman Representative, Wakiso - Shadow Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development. (Applause) Hon. Robert Maseruka, Member of Parliament for Mukono County South - Shadow Minister for Youth and Children’s Affairs. (Applause) Hon. Fred Jalameso, Member of Parliament for Ajuri County -Shadow Minister for Tourism and Wildlife. (Applause) Hon. Jamali Ayagalachi, Member of Parliament for Bukooli County North - Shadow Minister for Water and Environment. (Applause) Hon. Patrick Kuteesa, Member of Parliament for Kimaanya Kabonera Division - Shadow Minister for Agriculture. Hon. Okot Peter, Member of Parliament for Tochi County, Shadow Minister for Special Regions. Hon. Hassan Kaps Fungaroo, Member of Parliament for Obongi County - Shadow Minister for Human Rights. Hon. Abdallah Kiwanuka, Member of Parliament for Mukono County North - Shadow Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs. (Applause) Hon. Zahrah Luyirika, Member of Parliament for Makindye Division West – Shadow Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority. (Applause) Hon. Asinansi Nyakato, City Woman Representative, Hoima City - Shadow Minister for Works and Transport. (Applause) Hon. Zambaali Bulasio Mukasa, Member of Parliament for Nansana Municipality - Shadow Minister for Sports. (Applause) Hon. Hussein Muyonjo, Member of Parliament for Jinja North Division - Shadow Minister for Culture and Performing Arts. (Applause) Hon. Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, Member of Parliament for Kawempe Division North - Shadow Attorney-General. (Applause)

Thank you so much, Mr Speaker. At the onset, I support the Motion because irrigation is the only way to go. You can talk about the percentage of the loan being a bit high, but what are the repercussions of global warming? What are the repercussions of climate change? What are the repercussions of hunger? I am a farmer myself, and I deal with the farmers at the village level. It is very important - if you look at our irrigable coverage right now, you will realise that it is only at 0.5, yet the one for Burundi is at 1.6, Kenya is at 3.6. This means we are still below. It is very critical. As we talk, people’s crops are drying. The analogy and the argument of saying technicalities have not been followed, I request you, honourable members, to support the Motion and get water for irrigation. Some of you are Members of Parliament for Kampala Road. You may not know what is going on in the villages. I beg to submit.

84 ADDRESS ON THE STATE OF THE NATION, 2026 Thursday, 4 June 2026 Excellency the President on the State of the Nation; and 2. The Kololo Ceremonial Grounds to be the precincts of Parliament for the above- mentioned purpose. Given under my hand at Parliament House, Kampala, this 1 st day of June 2026 .” COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni; Her Excellency, the Vice-President, Major ( Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel; His Lordship, the honourable Chief Justice, Dr Flavian Zeija; the Rt Hon. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa; the Rt Hon. Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Robinah Nabbanja; the Rt Hon. Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi; cabinet ministers and ministers of state, honourable Members of Parliament of Uganda; ladies and gentlemen. I welcome you all to this official State opening of the First Session of the 12 th Parliament of Uganda, during which we will receive the President’s address on the State of the Nation. Honourable members, the State-of-the-Nation Address is a key constitutional address, pursuant to Article 101(1) of the 1995 Constitution, delivered by His Excellency, the President, to Parliament to outline the Government’s achievements over the past financial year, address pressing national challenges, and lay IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 3RD SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.12 p.m. in Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala. The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. PROCLAMATION

88 ADDRESS ON THE STATE OF THE NATION, 2026 the peasants, called Kyankuru. Millet is very comfortable when it is not threshed – when it is in the sheaves. After addressing a public meeting at Naama, the group gave us bicycle rides to Mzee Bitasaine’s place near Rwamasha Dam. Moving on foot, we addressed meetings, including a mega one where there is Karo Secondary School now. You should have seen the grandfathers and other adults listening to these young people. I was just 22 years old at that time, and Mwesigwa was slightly older than me. Thereafter, we moved on foot out of Mzee Bitanyoka’s home, where we had made our camp, and spent the night at Rushere with Mzee Mihinga. Thereafter, our remaining Shs 2.40 could only take us up to Bunyakasharara. From there, we walked on foot all the way to Mbarara, spending a night at my kraal in Akairungu near Biharwe, Mbarara area. It was now January 1967, and it was time to take up our temporary teaching jobs and get our own money to easily support our voluntary struggle for our people. Therefore, when I hear leaders talking of allowances to reach their people and get them out of poverty, I almost get nausea – I feel like vomiting, if you do not know. When I look at you, the way you do things, I really feel very – not pleased, but out of politeness, I have been keeping quiet: Now I am telling you. Even those who get government allowances do not go to the field. I hear that many just stay in Kampala. Another mistake is for leaders to give personal money to constituents. As you can see here, we had no money to give to anybody. The only money we had, even when we started getting our own salaries, was for bus transport. Most of the time, I would ride a bicycle from Kazo to Burunga, from Burunga to Rwakitura, and back. The only fuel I needed was no fat on my body. Now you hear a problem; a Muluka chief needs a motorcycle. A motorcycle for what? Let the Muluka chief ride a bicycle. I am really sick and tired of that parasitism. That is why I told you that this is “ Kisanja No More Sleep”, because I have been polite, talking, thinking that people will learn by example. No. This is the time to talk straight to everybody. Why should the Muluka chief have a motorcycle, fuel, and money? Let him use a bicycle. It is better for him. He will live longer if he rides a bicycle. Even a Gombolola chief, the Gombolola is not so big. Why should we have fuel and all of that? Work cannot be done because there is no money for fuel. The only fuel I needed was no fat on my body. We would share food and accommodation with our hosts, the population. God has kept me here, and I am now 82 years old – almost, not exactly, but almost. In spite of the efforts we expended in the resistance, the most important contribution to the people of the cattle corridor was the diagnosis of their problems and the prescription we offered, because we had no money to give these people. The only things we gave them were a correct analysis, a diagnosis, and a prescription. They were enough to arouse their enthusiasm and expectations. That was why they joined the young political party we formed in 1980, known as the Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM), after political parties were again allowed to exist. No money was given to them, but accurate analysis and prescriptions that were projected solutions, and also reaching out to them. You can imagine a 22-year-old child calling adults and grandfathers, and they came to those meetings. By 1986, the production of milk in Uganda was 200 million litres per annum. It is now 5.4 billion litres saving Uganda $1.56 billion of imports and earning $285 million in exports. Therefore, the work we did not only help cattle raising families but also saved Uganda the import bill of $1.56 billion if we were importing all this milk. Uganda would be spending $1.56 billion.

90 ADDRESS ON THE STATE OF THE NATION, 2026 them. These are products like tea, cotton, sugarcane, cattle ranching, etc. The logical question was: How do we, the cashless people of Abakolera ekida kyonka , start? That was the question. I started talking about this after the 1996 elections. The question was, where is the capital to start? Immediately, in 1997, the Entandikwa money at the subcounty was used as a revolving fund. I remember checking in Rubaga Division, here in Kampala, there was a Democratic Party Chairperson known as Sendikaddiwa at that time in that area, and that money was already there, and I challenged Sendikaddiwa on how to use that money by giving low-interest capital to our people. Since that time, we have never relented: National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) 2001; Operation Wealth Creation 2013; Parish Development Module (PDM), started in the year 2022; Emyooga 2020, etc. Many families have listened and benefited. During my country tours, I met a man named Mudebo in Sironko District. Let us see Mudebo. (A video presentation was made.)

91 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 4 JUNE 2026 Some of the communities in the cattle corridor did not ask for capital. They moved without capital and used their own money. The only thing we gave them was advice. In other areas, because they had indigenous cows, many of them converted them and got capital but in other areas, it was not so easy. That is why we started with the Entandikwa , the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), Operation Wealth Creation and now the Parish Development Model. This is for the small people. The question now is: how about the big farmers and manufacturers? We have not forgotten those. With the big farmers and manufacturers, the Government has put a total of Shs 1,600 billion in UDB. The interest rate for that money is 12 per cent per annum. The interest rate for PDM is 6 per cent per annum and payable after two years. Hence, for Shs 1 million, the borrower will return Shs 1.2 million for PDM. We are always creating other funds for the ghettos, musicians, etc., so capital is not a problem. Unlike the colonial agents who never wanted to plan for Africa, we have told Ugandans that our economy has potential in four sectors: services, commercial agriculture, manufacturing and ICT. The President is here. Parliament is here. Once people have woken up from sleep and want low-cost capital, if the Shs 100 million per parish per annum or any other funds are not enough, we can increase the money by adjusting in other areas. With the cattle corridor, we did not wait for low-interest capital. As already said, our only contribution to them was the “word”. In the cattle corridor, the work there was ekigambo , like that of the Bible. “In the beginning, there was the word. The word was God”. We just used the word there. In the other areas, we use the “word” and the capital is there. Small capital for small things; big capital for big things. The advice was to go from nomadism to sedentary agriculture, from okukolera ekida kyonka to working for the stomach and for the pocket, and do so with ekibaro . Additionally, in the cattle corridor, I gave 20 milk coolers that had been brought by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA). That was all. They converted their indigenous Ankole cattle into half-breeds, ebiihwa with Friesians and their businesses took off. However, wealth creation cannot take place if there is no peace, no law and order, and supportive infrastructure in the country. The UPDF always guarantees peace in the country. The police and Judiciary must ensure law and order. The NRM has struggled to tarmac - so with infrastructure, our scorecard is clear and must not be allowed to be spoiled. The NRM has struggled to tarmac the core national roads from the north at Oraba, Aruu, Nimule, and Musingo, which are all linked by tarmac roads. They are continuous from the north through the Kampala area to Kagitumba, Katuna, Kyanika, and Bunagana in the south. The mistake by the Ministry of Works and Transport is allowing these roads to deteriorate and then starting heavy work afterwards. The new ministers must ensure - I do not want to see what happened to some of the roads, like the Fort Portal Road, but there is a story of corruption in that road. I hope the new team will deal with that issue. We have tarmacked the road from east to west, from Busia, Lwakhakha, Suam, Amudat, all the way to Mpondwe, Busunga, and Ishasha in the west. This does not include the tarmac roads linking to the water bodies that are also transport connections, such as Jinja, because when you have the tarmac road up to Jinja, you go into the water and cross by ferry to Mwanza, to Kisumu, to wherever you want to go. Majanji, Port Bell, Butiaba, Kaiso - Tonya, Bukakata. There are tarmac roads going up to these water bodies. We are revamping the meter- gauge railway and building the standard-gauge one. We are working with Kenya and Tanzania on pipelines for crude and refined petroleum products. This will move heavy cargo away from the roads to the railway, and petroleum

95 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 4 JUNE 2026 A Ugandan returnee from abroad was recently trying to buy a flat in the Kampala area, and they were selling it at $1.2 million. When people are outside, they think that Uganda is in poverty. As she was trying to mobilise the money, the resident Ugandans had bought all the flats. When she came back, they said, “Sorry, all the flats are sold.” She was amazed that her family in the diaspora did not have money. These Ugandans, the “stayees”, have a lot of money. She was amazed at how rich some of the Ugandans are. The middle class is coming up. The question is what sort of middle class are we witnessing coming up? Are they the comprador bourgeoisie that are agents of foreign interests, or importers, commission agents, and others? Or are they the national bourgeoisie that build the capacity of the country through being big or small farmers, manufacturers, service providers, and ICT operators? Let us, therefore, move. No more sleep, no more kukongola , no more corruption, no more kugumaaza , no more politeness towards non-performers - this one, I have been polite enough. I do not kuwemula people, but all the non-performers must leave leadership. Leadership is not for ego, but for people and the country. In agriculture, it is possible to have a Pan- Ugandan rural transformation. In the Kisozi area, I have nine villages with 2,048 homesteads now. As of today, all the 2,048 homesteads have joined the money economy with coffee, bananas, dairy farming, goat rearing, and poultry. Let me see my people from the Kisozi area if you have got some. (A video presentation was made.)

Thursday, 28 May 2026 I also call upon you to exercise modesty and humility at all times, even when the microphone goes off, as we strive to realise a people-centred Legislature. (Laughter) As the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Commission, I will ensure a favourable environment for evidence- based legislation and responsiveness to the aspirations of the masses that we represent. Honourable members, I am in receipt of communication from His Excellency the President Gen. (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in exercise of his authority under Articles 108(1) and (2) and 108(a)(1), 111(1), 113(1), and 114(1) proposing various individuals to the Cabinet. This sitting will, therefore, consider, for approval, the appointment of the Vice- President and the Prime Minister, pursuant to Articles 108(2) and 108 (a)(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda 1995. For both positions, the approval of this House is by simple majority. In addition, the House will approve the designation of Members to the Appointments Committee in line with Article 90 of the Constitution and Rules 163(1), 164, 165, 167, 168, and 173 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament. We apologise for the mishap. I thank you all for this afternoon and for your faithfulness. When I was going out and the microphone did not work, I asked you all to stand up, but I am glad I came back and found you were still standing. Thank you very much. (Laughter) (Ms Betty Nambooze rose_) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 2ND SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.51 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Mr Jacob Oboth, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

51 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 28 MAY 2026 b. Counter Intelligence Course at the School of Military Intelligence and Security, intake 1/00/01 (Katabi); and c. Technical Surveillance: Kitante/Kololo intake 1/00/02 in 2001. FURTHER NOTING that Hon. Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Rose Alupo Epel has served her country with dedication and distinction in the following capacities: a. Vice-President of the Republic of Uganda from June 2021 to May 2026; b. District Woman Representative, Katakwi, in the Eighth Parliament, Ninth Parliament, 11 th Parliament and now in the 12 th Parliament; c. Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Sports from 2011 to 2016; d. Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs from 2009 to 2011; e. Deputy Chairperson, Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs from 2006 to 2009; f. Member of the parliamentary Committee on Government Assurances from 2006 to 2009; g. Staff Officer, Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence, Kitante, from 2001 to 2005; h. Staff Officer, Chieftaincy of Operations and Training, Bombo Military Barracks, from 2000 to 2001; i. Instructor in charge of female trainees, Singo Military Training School from 1999 to 2000; j. Voluntary teacher, Katakwi High School, in 1994; k. Vice Chairperson, Uganda National Students Association (UNSA), Ngora High School, 1993-1994. l. Volunteer teacher, Usuk Secondary School in 1992; m. Deputy Head girl, Kangole Girls’ Secondary School in 1991; n. Deputy Head girl, Apuuton Primary School in 1985. RECOGNISING that Hon. Maj. (Rtd) Alupo Jessica Rose Epel has been recognised as a transformative leader, a patriot, and has received the following awards for her dedicated and distinguished service in Uganda for the people of Uganda: (a) Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa, the Grand Commander during the International Women’s Day celebration in Katakwi in 2022; (b) Golden Jubilee Medal, 2013, during Women’s Day celebrations in Nakasongola on 8 March 2013; (c) The Pearl of Africa Award, 2012, at the International Conference Centre, Kampala; (d) The Eastern Region Women Achievers Award in September 2012 by Uganda Christian University; FURTHER RECOGNISING that Hon. Maj. (Rtd) Alupo Jessica Rose Epel has ably, with distinction and dedication, represented His Excellency the President of Uganda at national and international events and has represented Uganda’s interests very effectively, negotiated resolutions and addressed some of the following bodies: (a) United Nations General Assembly in New York, (b) The XVII Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa (BRICS) Leaders’ Summit (Heads of State) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (c) The 39 th Ordinary Session of the African Union Heads of State and Government, Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, in February 2026. (d) The 9 th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative Forum, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in October 2025. (e) The World Government Summit, Women in Government Forum, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2023. (f) The 24 th Common Market for East and South Africa (COMESA) Summit at the Heads of State and Government on the 7 th - 9 th October 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. APPRECIATING that Hon. Maj. (Rtd) Alupo Jessica Rose Epel is an accomplished author who has used her time to research into major issues affecting the well-being of the people of Uganda, and through this effort, she has published the following publications:

Mr Speaker, I am Shamim Malende, the District Woman Representative for Kampala. Mr Speaker, Article 108A(2)(a) says, “The Prime Minister shall be the Leader of Government Business in Parliament and be responsible for the coordination and implementation of Government policies across ministries, departments and other public institutions.” Clause (2)(b) says, “…and may also perform any other duties or functions assigned by the President or in line with the Constitution or the law.” I carry with me here the voices of the people of Kampala regarding the issue that we are handling now. There is a public outcry that when our honourable colleagues are given these positions – they could actually be very good leaders, but sometimes they do not have the power and the authority to decide on issues affecting their ministries. That is a very serious issue. I have heard my colleagues here, imploring the Prime Minister and other persons to ensure that they do due diligence, supervise ministers and all that. We all know that is very important. Mr Speaker, my procedural issue is: Would it not be procedurally right for the Rt Hon. Nabbanja to come and confirm to this House that, despite those challenges that are being cited by the public, like lack of power, lack of authority, that she is willing to take on the mantle when approved by this House, even when those challenges may still exist? You have a big office.

Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, honourable members of Parliament, I take this opportunity to congratulate you upon your election to this august House. The journey to this point has undoubtedly required commitment, resilience and the confidence of the people of Uganda, and IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - 1ST SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. at Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala. National Anthem East African Community Anthem PRAYERS (The Chief Justice, Justice Dr Flavian Zeija, in the Chair.) PROCLAMATION

Your Lordship the Chief Justice, I would like to make this statement in support of the nomination of Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, Member of Parliament for West Budama Central County, for election as Speaker of the 12 th Parliament. Your Lordship the Chief Justice, in accordance with Rule 5(8) of the Rules of Procedure of the Parliament of Uganda, I have the singular honour to nominate and present to you, for election as Speaker of the 12 th Parliament, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, the Member of Parliament for West Budama Central County. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, fondly called “Oboth Oboth”, was born on 13 April 1971 in Tororo District. Being an advocate of superior and subordinate courts in Uganda, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth possesses a solid legal foundation that equips him with professional skills to preside over the parliamentary processes effectively. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth possesses various academic qualifications, including the following: a) Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Minnesota Law School, USA (August 2006 to May 2007); b) Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice from Law Development Centre (2001 to 2002); c) Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (1997 to 2001); d) Certificate in Project Planning and Management from the International Law Institute, Washington D.C. (October 2005); e) Two certificates in Procurement and International Property Enforcement from the International Development Law Organisation in Rome, Italy (2003); f) Certificate in Management from Uganda Management Institute, Uganda (1999); g) Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education from Tororo High School (1995 to 1997); h) He was at St Dennis Ssebugwawo School -

Mr Speaker, I take the honour to observe the protocol. In reference to Article 82 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Rule 6 of our Rules of Procedure of Parliament, I hereby stand to move a motion to nominate Hon. Asinansi Nyakato, Woman Member of Parliament, Hoima City, for the position of Deputy Speaker of the 12 th Parliament of Uganda 2026 to 2031. I beg to nominate. Mr Speaker, allow me to give a brief statement to the nomination mentioned above. Hon. Asinansi Nyakato is pure, she is holy and absolutely white. It is from this equitable background that I rise with profound honour and a deep sense of duty to second the nomination of a colleague, a patriot, a nationalist and a proven servant to this House. Hon. Asinansi Nyakato, the woman Member of Parliament, Hoima City is a person fit for the office of high dignity in this country, as Deputy Speaker of the Republic of Uganda. Honourable members, an election defines institutions but leadership defines legacy. Today, this House has a chance to choose not just a unique presiding officer, but also a custodian of its dignity, defender of its independence and driver of its purpose. That personality is practically observed in the Member of Parliament I am nominating for Deputy Speakership. Honourable members, allow me to present to you a case of Hon. Asinansi Nyakato whose record speaks louder than any other factor, as mentioned. Hon. Asinansi Nyakato is a competence forged in experience. She is not a stranger to this House. This is the second time of her service in Parliament, with resilience as exhibited by the people of Hoima who have elected her to the second term of service to this House. Hon. Nyakato has a distinguished character. She is eloquent, resourceful, and of sound mind. Before she was elected as a Member of Parliament to hold this badge, she served as a policy analyst in this House. She has served as a Shadow Minister for Energy and Minerals Development as well as Shadow Minister for Agriculture. The good Hon. Asinansi Nyakato stands as the atom of Parliament, its rules, commitment with committees and bottlenecks; not from theory or even service, but all considerations. Hon. Asinansi Nyakato is a product of Kitara Secondary School and Mandela Secondary School from where she attained her Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE). She is a distinguished alumnus of Ndejje University and the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) from where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management, respectively. Honourable members, the person I present before you has equally earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management and a Masters’ degree in Project Planning and Management from Kampala International University. She also obtained a Masters’ degree in Public Policy and Governance from Uganda Management Institute and is now a candidate for a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) degree at the University of Cape Town. She is, therefore, not only learned but also fit for the purpose and committed to the disciplined thought that this House would possess. Honourable members, as we focus on a vision of an independent Parliament, the doctrine of separation of powers is not a suggestion but rather a constitutional demand. Under Hon. Nyakato Asinansi’s stewardship as a Deputy Speaker in this House, she will jealously guard its independence from the Executive and Judiciary dictatorship and interdiction or elsewhere.

now Shs 800 million per parish and per ward across Uganda. Therefore, if you say you are a leader, minister, or Member of Parliament of the NRM – the Opposition, I cannot control them; they can do their own things - but for the NRM, I really demand that you go back to these parishes and ask where the Shs 800 million is. By now, it should have covered 800 families per parish. In the manifesto, we are going to increase the money. We are going to make it Shs 200 million per year instead of Shs 100 million. Therefore, as of now, if all of you do your work - when you go back, call all those wonderful parish chiefs and demand data on what has been happening in each parish and each ward, because in the rural areas, it is the parishes; in the towns, it is the wards. Very soon we shall - if we start in this kisanja and add Shs 200 million per year, that will be an additional Shs 1 billion in five years. What will be brought back in five years will be Shs 600 million. By the end of this kisanja, you will be having more than Shs 2 billion in each parish. I do not want to hear that there is poverty in any homestead that has not accessed this money if they have the land. I demand this. Anybody who is a minister, if I come to your area and I find that you have not done it, I will sack you. There is no need for - I am polite, I do not want to embarrass people. Ministers are mature people. You talk, thinking that they will act, but if people do not care about their own people, why should I care about them? There is now capital in each parish - low- cost capital, which can get our people out of poverty. At the constituency level, you have the Emyooga Fund. I do not have the figures. When I come for the State-of-the-Nation Address, I will bring the figures. Where is that Emyooga money? What is it doing? Every Member of Parliament should take interest in that. There are other funds like the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) and money for the Ghetto people here in Kampala, Jinja and other areas. This money must be used to deal with poverty and jobs. There is also money for infrastructure going to the districts. Some of the people were arrested in many of the districts because money for the roads was being diverted to do other things because of corruption. Therefore, I want to inform everyone that all this time I have been monitoring. Normally, I do not want to embarrass mature people; I talk and act. I do not just talk. Put this money on the ground, struggle - it is not always easy, but fortunately, we have the money now, it is on the ground. Let us use it to get all our people out of poverty. When I see people going to Dubai to look for jobs in a desert, when paradise is here, rain and everything is here - Why should people in the desert have more jobs than us? For the NRM people, I have shown them how you can create jobs very easily and quickly through these PDM programmes. Show them Basangwa again, just briefly. You are quoting the Bible, which has been quoted many times. Let me also quote it. (A video was played.)

Now, that is the story. You hear that. You hear that, honourables, Right Honourables, Excellences and all. You hear that – “I am 64 years old but in all this time, I had never owned anything in my life.” Imagine! That is the story that she told me. There is also something she told me, which is not captured: because of poverty, the husband was in Kampala here. Tumusiime was there alone. However, with the PDM, the husband came back. (Laughter) I found the husband back there. So, Rt Hon. Speaker, Rt Hon. Deputy Speaker, Your Excellency the Vice President, Rt Hon. Prime Minister, honourable – enough is enough. Every so-called leader must use the Government programmes to eradicate poverty and create jobs. Jobs are created by wealth. Obugagga bwe buzaala emirimu. Lonyo is the one producing tic . Tic comes from lonyo . You cannot have tic without lonyo – wealth. I am now in a very bad mood because capital is there. In the past, my case was not very strong because people would say: how do we start? There is now capital. There is already Shs 800 million in each parish. Use it instead of Arsenal and – okay, you can have Arsenal but, please, solve that first, if you are a leader. Finally, I was sitting here, watching you shaking hands, hugging – but these people, do they know that there is Ebola? For me, I will not touch any of you. Sorry. Habari! Ssibakwatako nze. Ebola! Fortunately, Ebola is not like Coronavirus. Coronavirus was very dangerous because it was spreading through breathing. Ebola does not spread through breathing, but through contact; greeting, hugging – why do you hug? There is danger. I don’t have a budget

13 Friday, 15 May 2026 subsequently forwarded to the Clerk to Parliament, a list of persons duly elected as Members of the 12th Parliament; AWARE that under Article 81(4) and (5) of the Constitution, every person elected to Parliament shall take and subscribe to the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, and shall not, except for purposes of taking the oath, sit or vote in Parliament before taking and subscribing to the Oath; NOTING that Section 2 of the Oaths Act, Cap. 19 of the Laws of Uganda, mandates the Speaker of Parliament or the Clerk to Parliament to tender the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament to a person elected to Parliament; NOW, THEREFORE, by the powers conferred upon me by law, I will proceed to administer the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament to each Member-elect .” IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 7.51 a.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. (The Deputy Clerk, Parliamentary Affairs, Ms Rose Ikiror, presiding.) The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem PRAYERS PROCLAMATION

7. Nankwanga Stellamaris Woman Representative Bugweri Independent 8. Nanzala Metrine Namisindwa County Namisindwa NRM 9. Nassolo Eugenia Rubaga Division South Kampala NUP 10. Nawe Molly Kamukama Woman Representative Kazo NRM 11. Ndeezi Alex PWD Representative N/A NRM 12. Ngabirano Charles Rwampara East County Rwampara Independent 13. Ninsiima Evelyne Woman Representative Rubanda Independent 14. Nnamara Annet Oyes Byamukama Woman Representative Buhweju NRM 15. Nyakato Asinansi City Woman Representative Hoima City PFF 16. Namujju Cissy Dionizia Woman Representative Lwengo NRM 17. Nyakato Dorothy Woman Representative Kitagwenda NRM 18. Namutaawe Joan Woman Representative Masaka NUP 19. Nayebale Sylivia Woman Representative Gomba NRM 20. Naziiwa Margret Woman Representative Kagadi NRM 21. Nkunyingi Muwada Kyadondo County East Wakiso NUP 22. Nuria Hafsa Teko Woman Representative Kotido Independent 23. Nangoli Gerald Elgon North County Bulambuli NRM 24. Nyeko Johnson Kezekiya Lamwo County Lamwo NRM 25. Obong Peter Acuda Maruzi County Apac UPC 26. Obong Vincent Shedrick Lira West Division Lira City UPC 27. Okiding Sam (Lt Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 28. Ofwono Opondo P’Odel Older Person’s Representative Eastern NRM 29. Ocen Geoffery Kioga North County Amolatar UPC 30. 3Ogwal Joseph Jones Dokolo North County Dokolo NRM 31. Ojara Martin Mapenduzi Bardege-Layibi Division Gulu City NRM 32. Nameere Justine Woman Representative Masaka City NRM 33. Nkrumah Roland Bufumbira County East Kisoro NRM 34. 3Ojiit Peter Pingire County Serere Independent 35. Ntabazi Harriet Bwamba County Bundibugyo NRM 36. Ocan Patrick Apac Municipality Apac Independent 37. Ogwang Patrick Obura Oyam County South Oyam NRM 38. Okaasai Sidronius Opolot Kumi County Kumi NRM 39. Oketcho George West Budama County South Tororo NRM 40. Oketcho John Francis Bugiri Municipality Bugiri NRM 41. Okeyoh Peter Bukooli Island County Namayingo NRM 42. Okot Peter Tochi County Omoro DP 43. Okumu Gabriel Okoro County Zombo NRM 44. Omara Paul Otuke County Otuke NRM 45. Omoding Emmanuel Serere County Serere NRM 46. Onek Hilary Obaloker Palabek County Lamwo NRM 47. Oneka Lit Amere Denis Kitgum Municipality Kitgum FDC 48. Ongom Patrick Erute County North Lira NRM 49. Ongu James Kwania North County Kwania NRM 50. Opito Vincent Dokolo South County Dokolo UPC 51. Nankabirwa Ann Maria Woman Representative Kyankwanzi NRM 52. Nantongo Fortunate Rose Woman Representative Kyotera NUP 53. Natumanya Flora Woman Representative Kikuube NRM 54. Naturinda Eliab Ndorwa County West Kabale NRM 55. Ngompek Linos Kibanda North County Kiryandongo NRM 56. Ninkusiima John Paul (Dr) Ibanda County South Ibanda NRM 57. Niringiyimana James R. Kaberuka Kinkizi County West Kanungu NRM

15 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 15 MAY 2026 58. Niyonsaba Alex Bufumbira County South Kisoro NRM 59. Nsamba Patrick Oshabe Kassanda County North Kassanda NUP 60. Ntale Nsereko Madina Kawempe Division South Kampala NRM 61. Obigah Rose Woman Representative Terego NRM 62. Ochai Maximus West Budama County North Tororo NRM 63. Ojok Andrew Oulanyah Omoro County Omoro NRM 64. Okello Patrick Onguti Aswa County Gulu DP 65. Okot Boniface Henry Kole South County Kole NRM 66. Odwori John Kagoma North County Jinja NUP 67. Oboth Marksons Jacob West Budama Central County Tororo NRM 68. Onzima Phiona Ayivu Division West Arua City NRM 69. Ongalo-Obote Clement Kenneth Kalaki County Kalaki NRM 70. Okia Joanne Aniku Woman Representative Madi-Okollo NRM 71. Nsegumire Muhamad Kibedi Mityana County North Mityana NRM 72. Okullo Francis Ochero County Kaberamaido NRM 73. Opio Samuel Acuti Kole North County Kole NRM 74. Okwi Constantine Kibale County Pallisa NRM 75. Waako Joy Peggy Older Persons Representative Female NRM 76. Ongiertho Emmanuel Jor Nebbi Municipality Nebbi Independent 77. Ssekitoleeko Robert Bamunanika County Luweero NUP 78. Ogwang Peter Ngariam County Katakwi NRM 79. Ongorok Richard Usuk County Katakwi NRM 80. Olanya Gilbert Kilak South County Amuru FDC 81. Okoya John Calvin Chua East County Kaberamaido NRM 82. Okello Geoffery Charles Nwoya East County Nwoya DP 83. Ogama Alli Ismail Lower Madi County Madi-Okollo NRM The House was suspended at 11.12 a.m. until 1.00 p.m. On resumption, at 1.00 p.m. 84. Wanyoto Godfrey Budadiri County West Sironko Independent 85. Nyamutoro Phiona Woman Representative Nebbi NRM 86. Opio Denish Geoffrey Nwoya County Nwoya DP 87. Origumisiriza Enid Atuheire Woman Representative Kabale NRM 88. Ottober Wellborn Odiya Aruu North County Pader NRM 89. Ssewagudde Robert PWD Representative N/A Independent 90. Otimgiw Isaac Ismail Padyere County Nebbi NRM 91. Ruteraho Lillian Woman Representative Isingiro NRM 92. Ssemwanga Joseph (Brig. Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 93. Sange Jackline Woman Representative Kween NRM 94. Opolot-Okwalinga Simon Peter Kanyum County Kumi NRM 95. Owere Richard Machika West Budama North East Tororo NRM 96. Paparu Lillian Obiale Woman Representative Arua NRM 97. Paak Peter Pex Dodoth East County Kaabong NRM 98. Rwakoojo Robina Gureme Woman Representative Gomba NRM 99. Rwashande Emmanuel (Brig. Gen. Rtd) Lwemiyaga County Ssembabule NRM 100. Sekabira Denes Katikamu North County Luweero NUP 101. Ssewungu Joseph Gonzaga Kalungu County West Kalungu NUP 102. Owino Nicholas Simon Tororo North County Tororo NRM

103. Ruhindi Fredrick Nakawa Division East Kampala NRM 104. Taban Aate Sharifah Woman Representative Koboko Independent 105. Ouma Willy Namayingo South County Namayingo Independent 106. Orone Derrick Gogonyo County Pallisa NRM 107. Tete Chelengat Everline Woman Representative Bukwo NRM 108. Tibyaze Peace Woman Representative Jinja NRM 109. Tom Aliti Candia Maracha East County Maracha NRM 110. Rwakimari Beatrice Ruhaama County Ntungamo NRM 111. Tumuramye Genensio Kashongi County Kiruhura NRM 112. Tumusiime John Bosco Kashari South County Mbarara NRM 113. Teira John Bugabula County North Kamuli NRM 114. Oryema Simon Peter Adum Chua West County Kitgum NRM 115. Turyahikayo Kebirungi Mary Paula Woman Representative Rukungiri NRM 116. Sebamala Richard Bukoto County Central Masaka DP 117. Tiyo William Taylor Odaa Ayivu Division East Arua City NRM 118. Ssebbugga-Kimeze Berunado Budyepo County Nakasongola NRM 119. Tayebwa Thomas Ruhinda North County Mitooma NRM 120. Otto Edward Makmot Agago County Agago NRM 121. Rwamirama Bright Kanyontore (Lt Col Rtd) Isingiro County North Isingiro NRM 122. Tebandeke Charles Bbaale County Kayunga NUP 123. Tukahirwa James Byenjuru Hunter Kajara County Ntungamo NRM 124. Tumukunde Henry Kakurugu (Lt Gen. Rtd) Rukungiri Municipality Rukungiri NRM 125. Tumwesigye Anthony Isingiro West County Isingiro Independent 126. Ssenyonyi Joel Basekezi Nakawa Division West Kampala NUP 127. Osoru Mourine Woman Representative Arua City NRM 128. Ossiya Solomon Alemu Toroma County Katakwi NRM 129. Shyam Jay Tanna Tororo Municipality Tororo Independent 130. Twalla Fadil Tingey County Kapchorwa NRM 131. Waluswaka James Bunyole West County Butaleja NRM 132. Tumwebaze Mwine Youth Representative Western NRM 133. Twinomujuni Francis Kazini Buhaguzi County Kikuube NRM 134. Otafiire Kahinda (Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Ruhinda County Mitooma NRM 135. Silwany Solomon Bukooli County Central Bugiri NRM 136. Otim Bernard Maruzi North County Apac NRM 137. Waiswa Joel Azalwa Busiki County Namutumba Independent 138. Ssemwanga Gyaviira Buyamba County Rakai NRM 139. Wakida Patrick Godfrey Kabweri County Kibuku NRM 140. Walyomu Moses Muwanika Kagoma County Jinja Independent 141. Wandera John Paul Samia Bugwe County North Busia Independent 142. Saazi Godfrey Gomba East County Gomba NUP 143. Wanyenya Shafiga Bungokho County North Mbale NRM 144. Twesige Stephen Buyaga East County Kagadi NRM 145. Twinamasiko Onesimus Bugangaizi East County Kakumiro NRM 146. Wandera Sadala Bugweri County Bugweri NRM 147. Tayebwa Didas Kabumbuza Kooki County Rakai NRM 148. Wanyama Judas Thadeo Youth Representative Eastern NRM 149. Sserukenya David Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipality Wakiso NUP 150. Sekindi Aisha Woman Representative Kalungu Independent

7 Thursday, 14 May 2026 forwarded to the Clerk to Parliament a list of persons duly elected as Members of the 12th Parliament; AWARE that under Article 81(4) and (5) of the Constitution, every person elected to Parliament shall take and subscribe the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution; and shall not, except for purposes of taking the oaths, sit or vote in Parliament before taking and subscribing to the Oaths; NOTING that Section 2 of the Oaths Act, Cap. 19 of the Laws of Uganda, mandates the Speaker of Parliament or the Clerk to Parliament to tender the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament to a person elected to Parliament; NOW, THEREFORE, by the powers conferred upon me by law, I will proceed to administer the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament to each Member-elect .” IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 7.50 a.m. at Parliament House, Kampala (The Deputy Clerk, Parliamentary Affairs, Ms Rose Ikiror, presiding.) The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem PRAYERS PROCLAMATION

8 ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS 5. Kansiime Annah Woman Representative Rwampara NRM 6. Kanyesigye Mercy Youth Representative Female Independent 7. Kapyagon Brian Kongasis County Bukwo Independent 8. Karim Musa Aringa North County Yumbe Independent 9. Kasajja George Patrick Bulamogi North West County Kaliro NRM 10. Kasigwa Gerald Bihemaiso Kigorobya County Hoima NRM 11. Kasirye Nganda Ali Makindye East Division Kampala NUP 12. Kasukaali Methuselah Mwenge Central County Kyenjojo NRM 13. Kariisa Johnbosco Koy Buhweju West County Buhweju NRM 14. Katushabe Ruth Woman Representative Bukomansimbi NRM 15. Katusiime Annet Mugisha Woman Representative Bushenyi NRM 16. Kawalya Abubaker Rubaga Division North Kampala NUP 17. Kasaija Matia Buyanja County Kibaale NRM 18. Karuhanga Gerald Kafureeka Ntungamo Municipality Ntungamo Independent 19. Khalayi Peace Woman Representative Namisindwa NRMK 20. Kiirya Grace Paddy Wanzala Butembe County Jinja FDC 21. Kiiza Andrew N. Kaluya Kigulu County South Iganga NUP 22. Katushabe Doreen Birungi Woman Representative Lyantonde NRM 23. Kiyonga C.W.C.B. Bukonzo County West Kasese NRM 24. Muhwezi Jim Katugugu Rujumbura County Rukungiri NRM 25. Kenan Opio Busiro South Wakiso NRM 26. Kateshumbwa Dicksons Sheema Municipality Sheema NRM 27. Katusiime Jovia Woman Representative Kiryandongo NRM 28. Kiiza Kenneth Nyendwoha Bujenje County Masindi NRM 29. Kikabi Edward (Dr) Ntwetwe County Kyankwanzi NRM 30. Kinalwa James (Maj. Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 31. Kinobere Herbert Tom Kibuku County Kibuku Independent 32. Kinshaba Patience Nkunda Woman Representative Kanungu Independent 33. Kiruluuta Yusuf J. Nkerettanyi Kalungu County East Kalungu NUP 34. Kirumira Hassan Katikamu County South Luweero NUP 35. Kisekka Salim Bukomansimbi North County Bukomansimbi NRM 36. Kitiyo Patrick Kapchorwa Municipality Kapchorwa Independent 37. Kiyimba Emmanuel Bukoto County Mid-West Lwengo NRM 38. Kasule Ismail Hoima West Division Hoima City ANT 39. Khainza Agnes Shiuma Woman Representative Bududa NRM 40. Kugonza Emely Buyanja East County Kibaale NRM 41. Kungu Samuel Bamuteeze Kigulu County North Iganga NRM 42. Kwizera Eddie Wa-Gahungu Bukimbiri County Kisoro Independent 43. Kyambadde Amelia Ann Mawokota County North Mpigi NRM 44. Kyarampe Rebecca Woman Representative Mitooma NRM 45. Kyarikunda Loydah T. Woman Representative Mbarara NRM 46. Kisa Stephen Bakubalwayo Luuka South County Luuka NRM 47. Kavuma Samuel (Lt Gen.) UPDF N/A N/A 48. Kitanywa Sowedi Busongora County North Kasese NRM 49. Kizza Hakim Sawula Bukoto County South Lwengo NUP 50. Kuteesa Patrick Kimanya-Kabonera Division Masaka City NUP 51. Kwiyucwiny Grace Freedom Ora County Zombo NRM 52. Kibaaju Charity Kamuhanda Woman Representative Mbarara City NRM 53. Komol Joseph Miidi Dodoth North County Kaabong NRM 54. Karubanga Jacob Ateenyi Kibanda South County Kiryandongo Independent 55. Mwine Mpaka Rwamirama Mbarara South Division Mbarara City NRM

9 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 14 MAY 2026 56. Kirungi Annet Pamela Woman Representative Kabarole NRM 57. Kyogabiirwe Jackie Muganda Woman Representative Kyegegwa NRM 58. Lanyero Christine Awany Woman Representative Nwoya NRM 59. Logose Sarah Annet Woman Representative Butaleja NRM 60. Lokii John Baptist (Dr) Matheniko County Moroto NRM 61. Lokoru Albert Tepeth County Moroto Independent 62. Lokoru Stephenson Yoyo Chekwii East County Nakapiripirit NRM 63. Longoli Simon Peter Chekwii County (Kadam) Nakapiripirit NRM 64. Lubega George Willy Bugangaizi South County Kakumiro NRM 65. Lubowa Ssebina Gyaviira Nyendo-Mukungwe County Masaka City NUP 66. Lugoloobi Amos Ntenjeru County North Kayunga NRM 67. Kiwanuka Sulaiman Nakifuma County Mukono NUP 68. Kuteesa Mary Kamuli Mwenge County South Kyenjojo NRM 69. Kyeyune Ivan Nakasongola County Nakasongola NUP 70. Lakisa Mercy Faith Woman Representative Alebtong NRM 71. Lenia Charity Kevin Vurra County Arua NRM 72. Mutebi Benard Mugoya Bulamogi County Kaliro Independent 73. Katooko Sylivia Damba Woman Representative Kibuku NRM 74. Kayogera Yona Busiki North County Namutumba Independent 75. Kiti Peter T’oo County Bukwo NRM 76. Lolem Micah Akasile Upe County Amudat NRM 77. Locap Peterkhen Bokora East County Napak NRM 78. Linda Irene City Woman Representative Fort Portal City NRM 79. Lokubal Emma Woman Representative Nabilatuk NRM 80. Katusiime Adrine Woman Representative Sheema NRM 81. Loluk Fidelis Logwee Napore West County Karenga Independent 82. Komakech Christopher Aruu County Pader NRM 83. Muzaid Khemis Arua Central Division Arua City FDC 84. Lamwaka Catherine Woman Representative Omoro NRM 85. Kiwanuka Abdallah Mukono County North Mukono NUP 86. Kyeyune Haruna Kasolo Kyotera County Kyotera NRM (The House was suspended at 11.42 a.m.) (On resumption at 1.00 p.m., the Deputy Clerk, Parliamentary Affairs presiding.) 87. Lokwang Hillary Ik County Kaabong NRM 88. Lowila CD Oketayot Woman Representative Pader NRM 89. Lugoloobi Willy Bageyente Bujumba County Kalangala NRM 90. Lugwar Benson Agogo North County Agago Independent 91. Lukyamuzi David Kalwanga Busujju County Mityana NUP 92. Kiwanuka Keefa Kiboga East County Kiboga NRM 93. Maala Zahrah Luyirika Makindye Division West Kampala NUP 94. Makumbi Henry Kamya Mityana County South Mityana NRM 95. Mariam Seif Woman Representative Iganga NRM 96. Mafabi Asha Nabulo Woman Representative Sironko NRM 97. Mamawi James Adjumani East County Adjumani Independent 98. Masaba Karim Industrial Division Mbale City Independent 99. Matembu Chriss Wataka Bubulo County West Manafwa Independent 100. Matovu Emmanuel Magoola Busiro County East Wakiso Independent 101. Mawanda Micheal Maranga Igara County East Bushenyi NRM

102. Maganda Julius Wandera Samia Bugwe County South Busia NRM 103. Malende Shamim Woman Representative Kampala NUP 104. Mayanja Moses Busiro County North Wakiso NRM 105. Mbalibulha Christopher K. Taban Bughendera County Bundibugyo Independent 106. Monday Julius Rude (Dr) Bukonzo County East Kasese NRM 107. Lule Eria Erick Kiboga West County Kiboga NRM 108. Meeme Sylvia (Col) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 109. Lwansasula Sarah Woman Representative Jinja City NUP 110. Modoi Isaac Lutseshe County Bududa NRM 111. Mpaata Salleh Bunya County South Mayuge NRM 112. Mubangizi Dedan Buwekula South County Mubende NRM 113. Luyimbazi Nalukoola Elias Kawempe Division North Kampala NUP 114. Masaba Muhamood Mutenyo Bungokho Central County Mbale NRM 115. Mbabazi Jacqueline Older persons Representative Western NRM 116. Migadde Robert Ndugwa Buvuma Islands County Buvuma NRM 117. Mudukoi Fred Oduchu Butebo County Butebo NRM 118. Namatovu Mastula Kamuli Municipality Kamuli NRM 119. Mugenyi Joseph Burahya County Kabarole NRM 120. Mudiobole Abedi Nasser Iganga Municipality Iganga NUP 121. Mugira James (Lt Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 122. Mugisa Margaret Muhanga Fort Portal North Division Fort Portal City NRM 123. Malinga Isaac Maikut Soi County Kween NRM 124. Masiko Henry Moses (Maj. Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 125. Mushabe Rujoki Ruth Woman Representative Kiruhura NRM 126. Mpindi Bumali PWD N/A Independent 127. Maseruka Robert Mukono County South Mukono NUP 128. Musinguzi Patrick Kashari North County Mbarara NRM 129. Muhenda Ronald Fort Portal Central Division Fort Portal City Independent 130. Muhooza Desire Woman Representative Kiboga NRM 131. Mujungu Jennifer K. Woman Representative Ntoroko NRM 132. Mujuni Asensio Maari Isingiro County South Isingiro NRM 133. Mukisa Robina Hope Woman Representative Namayingo NRM 134. Mukhaye Miriam Woman Representative Mbale NRM 135. Mulemya Ismail Sowed Busia Municipality Busia NRM 136. Mukiibi Eriasa Sserunjogi Butambala County Butambala Independent 137. Mulindwa David Isimbwa Busongora County South Kasese NRM 138. Mirembe Lydia Daphine Woman Representative Butambala Independent 139. Mugabe Robert Kitagwenda County Kitagwenda NRM 140. Mugabi Muzaale Martin Kisule Buzaaya County Kamuli NRM 141. Musa Noah Koboko North County Koboko NRM 142. Musanje Moses Njeru Municipality Buikwe NUP 143. Musasizi Henry Ariganyira Rubanda County East Rubanda NRM 144. Musila John Bubulo East County Namisindwa NRM 145. Musisi George Kira Municipality Wakiso NUP 146. Mutasingwa Diana Nankunda Woman Representative Buikwe NRM 147. Mutego Ronard Hangujja Bunyole East County Butaleja Independent 148. Nakku Fiona Female Workers Representative N/A Independent 149. Mutekanga Zadock Buhweju County Buhweju NRM 150. Mutonyi Rose Masaaba Woman Representative Manafwa Independent 151. Muyonjo Hussein Jinja North Division Jinja City NUP 152. Mwesigwa Mathias Rubabo County Rukungiri NRM

1 Wednesday, 13 May 2026 and subsequently forwarded to the Clerk to Parliament, a list of persons duly elected as Members of the 12th Parliament; AWARE that under Article 81(4) and (5) of the Constitution, every person elected to Parliament shall take and subscribe to the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, and shall not, except for purposes of taking the oath, sit or vote in Parliament before taking and subscribing to the Oath; NOTING that Section 2 of the Oaths Act, Cap. 19 of the Laws of Uganda, mandates the Speaker of Parliament or the Clerk to Parliament to tender the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of a Member of Parliament to a person elected to Parliament; NOW, THEREFORE, by the powers conferred upon me by law, I will proceed to administer the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Member of Parliament to each Member-elect .” IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIRST SESSION - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 8.00 a.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. (The Clerk to Parliament, Mr Adolf Mwesige Kasaija, presiding.) The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem PRAYERS PROCLAMATION CLERK TO PARLIAMENT: “ WHEREAS the Electoral Commission organised and conducted the elections of Members of Parliament specified under Article 78(1)(a), (b) and (c) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda; AND WHEREAS the Electoral Commission, under General Notice No. 171 of 2026, published, in the Uganda Gazette, the results of the 2026 parliamentary elections ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS The oaths were administered to: Name Constituency District Political Party/ Independent 1. Asiimwe Enos K. Kabula County Lyantonde NRM 2. Ali Moses Adjumani West County Adjumani NRM 3. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar Orungo County Amuria Independent 4. Alinaitwe Sylvia Tumuheirwe District Woman Representative Rukiga NRM 5. Ababiku Jesca District Woman Representative Adjumani NRM

4 ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS 103. Kalenzi Victor Bunyangabu County Bunyangabu NRM 104. Basajjassubi Nsereko Charles Nakaseke South County Nakaseke NRM Kawuma 105. Baseke Fred Ntenjeru County South Kayunga NRM 106. Bright Tom Amooti Kyaka Central County Kyegegwa NRM 107. Bazaanya Matayo Bugabula County South Kamuli NRM 108. Begiira Samuel Youth Representative Central NRM 109. Begumisa Protazio Ndorwa County East Kabale NRM 110. Bagiire Aggrey Henry Bunya County West Mayuge NRM 111. Baryayanga Andrew Aja Kabale Municipality Kabale NRM 112. Bassajja Iddi Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality Bushenyi NRM 113. Bigirwa Norah Nyendwoha District Woman Representative Buliisa NRM 114. Bingi Patrick Nyanzi Butemba County Kyankwanzi NRM 115. Birungi Annet Workers Representative N/A NRM 116. Birungi Carolyn Nanyondo Kyamuswa County Kalangala NRM 117. Banya Emmanuel Natal Koboko County Koboko NRM 118. Biara Emmanuel Wepukhulu Bulambuli County Bulambuli NRM 119. Kabarokole Sarah District Woman Representative Bunyangabu NRM 120. Bisaso Abdul Kassanda County South Kassanda NRM 121. Bakashaba Christopher Mbarara North Division Mbarara City NRM 122. Oleru Huda Abason Aringa East County Yumbe NRM 123. Kabanda Minsa Nabbengo Kampala Central Division Kampala NRM 124. Bebona Josephine Babungi District Woman Representative Bundibugyo NRM 125. Baguma Spellanza Muhenda District Woman Representative Kyenjojo Independent 126. Batuwa Timothy Lusala Jinja South Division West Jinja City NUP 127. Byamukama Fred Bugangaizi West County Kakumiro NRM 128. Kadaga Rebecca Alitwala District Woman Representative Kamuli NRM 129. Byamukama Rogers Masindi Municipality Masindi NRM 130. Byanyima Nathan Bukanga North County Isingiro NRM 131. Byibesho Sam Kisoro Municipality Kisoro NRM 132. Byuma Oswald Dez Mawogola County Ssembabule NRM 133. Cadet Benjamin Bunyaruguru County Rubirizi NRM 134. Challa Elma Kapel Youth Representative Northern NRM 135. Chandia Benadette Kodili District Woman Representative Moyo NRM 136. Chemonges William Kween County Kween NRM 137. Chemutai Phyllis District Woman Representative Kapchorwa Independent 138. Cheutich Rufina District Woman Representative Amudat NRM 139. Dramviku Eric Sabiti Terego West County Terego NRM 140. Driwaru Jennifer District Woman Representative Maracha NRM 141. Echodu David Calvin Soroti West County Soroti City NRM 142. Edakasi Alfred Elalu-Olale Kaberamaido County Kaberamaido NRM 143. Ediau Samuel Amuria County Amuria NRM 144. Edopu Peter Edeku Dakabela County Soroti NRM 145. Ekoro Alex Irukan Bunya County East Mayuge NRM 146. Elem Leo Moroto County Alebtong UPC 147. Emaju Peter Paul Kasilo County Serere NRM 148. Eron Tonny Kwania County Kwania NRM 149. Etilu Margaret District Woman Representative Amuria NRM 150. Bagoole Ngobi John Luuka North County Luuka NRM 151. Eunice Otuko Apio Oyam County North Oyam UPC 152. Kamuntu Ephraim Sheema County South Sheema NRM

Thank you. Honourable members, as long as you are in this House, you are all very safe. Unfortunately, I did not see the deployment. Maybe because I came through the lift - they ran away from me? They will not harm my people. Is Hon. Panadol also here? When there is a last supper, everybody has to come. I am also happy to see my Leader of the Opposition (LOP). Next item. Parliament met at 1.59 p.m.in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18889 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 5 MAY 2026 In addition to the hearing from stakeholders who appeared before the committee, the committee also took into account the perspectives shared by His Excellency, the President, in his guidance to the nation through his letter, particularly that which was addressed to the Bazzukulu, regarding the Bill. Following these engagements, the committee held further sittings, during which the learned Attorney-General responded to the stakeholder concerns and proposed refinements to the Bill. The interactive process ensured that the review incorporated both legal scrutiny and practical implementation considerations. This structured approach, characterised by open invitations, dedicated submission time, inclusive hearings, and responsible dialogue, demonstrates that the committee’s work was informed by a wide participatory and nationally representative consultation process. The stakeholders the committee interfaced with include the following. It is important that this goes on record. We have clustered them like this. We had stakeholders in the government and public institutions. These are actors with statutory mandates that include the Bank of Uganda, Financial Intelligence Authority, National Planning Authority, Uganda Human Rights Commission, and the Parliamentary Committees. We also had another cluster of legal and professional bodies and organisations that focused on the law, like Uganda Law Society, East African Law Society, the Law Development Centre, and Centre for Constitutional Governance, which had, in their entourage, former members and ministers of the Government, and independent legal practitioners who forwarded multiple submissions. We had political actors and movements, political parties, or politically affiliated formations. These included, the Alliance for National Transformation, Forum for Democratic Change, National Unity Platform, the People’s Front for Freedom, and, for the record - the Hansard must capture this, Madam Speaker - the Uganda People’s Congress appeared and gave their views and the Leader of the Opposition also appeared and gave his views. I am mentioning it for Hansard to capture . We also entertained private sector and business associations that include: the Chamber of Commerce, Kampala Arcade Traders Association, Kampala City Traders Association, Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, Uganda National Traders Association, the Gen Z’s Business Owners Association, Innovation Village, the Start-up Ecosystem, and the Independent Private Sector Consultants. We did not stop there. We entertained Financial Insurance and the Economic Sector Actors. These include the sector-specific institutional stakeholders, which include the Uganda Bankers Association, supervised financial institutions like banks, and mobile money operators via sector submissions. We also entertained the Payment Service Providers Association, the Uganda Forex Bureau, and the Money Remittances Association. They too appeared and gave their views. We also considered digital, telecom, media, and actors in communication, broadcasting, and the digital economy, including communication sector operators, the National Association of Broadcasters, media practitioners, journalists and journalism practitioners. We also entertained Civil Society and Non- Government Organisations, both domestic and international civic actors. These include: the Anti-Corruption Coalition of Uganda, Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, Legal Aid Service Providers Association, the Rotary of Uganda, Women Probono Initiative, Country Directors of International Network, and various national Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) also submitted. We also entertained international organisations and development actors; multinational organisations and international cooperation

I request that we rephrase “interest of a foreigner”. For example, if we promote the interest of Kenya that wants the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to pass via Tororo and head to the North and the Government of Uganda maybe wants the SGR to come to Kampala – I, who comes from the east wants it to go to the North to promote trade - Now if it is being promoted by the Government of Kenya, I will support that idea yet I might be criminalised.

I am not reading in piecemeal. In that case, the interest of Uganda will be SGR to come to Kampala while Kenya’s interest is for it to go to the North and I will defend that -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am surprised like you that the Government is not here on such an important day when we are supposed to handle appropriation. Hon. Bahati is here, but nonetheless, I would like to use this opportunity to raise a matter, Madam Speaker, if you allow. It is to do with the new trade order in the different towns and cities. Madam Speaker, we have waited for the minister to bring a document to this Parliament, but he has not. Ugandans outside are suffering, and they are stuck. They do not know what to do. When the authorities come to carry away the kiosks, they also take away the goods and they come abruptly. Madam Speaker, since the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives is here, could you allow me to raise this matter as we wait for the other ministers to come in the House? It would be very important. I request the minister to tell us the plan and strategy they have. This is because people are crying; people are in pain. Now we are going IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 10TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) T he House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you very much. When I raised this matter, you directed the minister for Kampala to bring a statement, which she did not. I am happy Hon. Bahati says they have suspended. My question to him is: what happens to lives that you have already ruined? Do you reconstruct their businesses? In my area, it was the military and technical people who carried out this exercise. But also goons like those who were in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) T-shirts during the campaigns, stealing mobile money -

In this country, we have a law; the Consumer Protection Act. The fuel that is in the country - even if there has been an increase due to the exchange rate differences, we should not be expecting big price variations between the fuel here in Kampala and in a place like Arua. The assurance we need from the Government is the measures they are taking to clamp down on people who are hoarding fuel and those who are escalating the prices unrealistically. We had a press conference - I saw that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development gave very good information that fuel is available. They have orders but the people who are involved in selling fuel at an exorbitant price are exploiting Ugandans. Madam Speaker, this is where we need to see the efforts that are being implemented to ensure that they crack down and protect consumers.

18920 THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (NO.2) BILL, 2025 On 1 April 2026, the minister submitted a Certificate of Gender and Equity Compliance of the draft annual budget estimate for FY 2026/2027. The certificate indicates that a compliance level of 70 per cent, up from 68.5 per cent in the FY 2025/2026. In this regard, however, the committee observed that the measures highlighted in the Certificate of Gender and Equity Responsiveness do not provide explicit measures to equalise opportunities for men, women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups. The measures indicated are just budget allocations towards interventions that could be considered gender and equity related. The committee actually examined this and I think there is need for more work in this area. In this regard, any gender certificate issued to Parliament should include explicit and detailed measures to equalise opportunities for men, women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups in the coming years. 5.4 Budgets of Public Corporations and State Enterprises Madam Speaker, Section 12 (11)(f) requires the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit to this House all budgets of public corporations and state enterprises. However, only budgets of 21 public corporations and state enterprises were submitted out of 61 public corporations and enterprises. Under volume 3 of the draft estimates - that big document that Hon. Musasizi was laying here; you saw them, they were 13,000 pages. The public corporation and state enterprises that were not submitted to Parliament under volume 3 of the draft estimates for Financial Year 2026/27, include: As you see in the table 10, those included in volume 3, that were submitted are 21, and they are there. Those that were not submitted are many. They are almost 40. There are no documents for Bujagali Energy Limited, Dairy Corporation Limited, Deposit Protection Fund, Electricity Regulatory Authority, Enterprise Uganda, Housing Finance Bank, Housing Finance Investments, Insurance Training College, Kampala Industries and Business Park, Kiira Motors, Kilembe Mines, Nakivubo War Memorial, National Drug Authority - nothing was submitted on National Enterprise Corporation, National Housing and Construction Company, New Vision, Pearl Bank and Pride Microfinance. All those were not submitted. I can continue on and on: Uganda Development Bank, Uganda Development Corporation, Uganda Energy Credit, Uganda Fisheries Enterprise, Uganda Livestock Industries, Uganda National Airlines, Uganda National Oil Company, Uganda Post Limited, Uganda Seed Company, Uganda Telecommunications Corporation and Uganda Wildlife Authority. No documents were given on Uganda Retirement Benefits Authority, Nile Hotel International, Kinyara Sugar Works, National Social Security Fund, Tropical Bank, Uganda Electricity Corporation and so on. The committee therefore observes as follows: i) According to the Auditor-General report, the Government does not maintain a comprehensive database of public corporations and state enterprises. This undermines comprehensive scrutiny of financial performance of public corporations and state enterprises. ii) The legal provision of the PFMA, Cap 171 is consequently being violated with regard to the non-provision of all budgets for public corporations and state enterprises. The committee recommends as follows: i) Reiterates its earlier recommendation that the Accountant-General should establish a comprehensive database for all public corporations and state enterprises which should capture information such as the name of the entity, business/industry, location, shareholding, directors, their

18922 THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (NO.2) BILL, 2025 6.3 The Resource Envelope Madam Speaker, the resource envelope for the Financial Year 2026/2027 amounts to Shs 84.391.74 trillion, a rise from Shs 72.376.48 trillion as detailed in the Financial Year 2025/2026. The details of the resources are in Table 11. So our new budget in the coming financial year is 84.391.74 trillion. 6.4 How does Government plan to spend this money? Madam Speaker, Shs 84.391.74 trillion will be spent as follows: The expenditure allocations in the Financial Year 2026/27 are projected to increase by about Shs 11,917.68 billion compared to the approved budget of the Financial Year 2025/26, as detailed in Tables 12 and 13. This increase is mainly driven by the additional budget allocations to the following critical expenditure priorities. Madam Speaker, this is where the Shs 84.439.74 trillion will go: (i) Transport and Energy infrastructure, especially meeting government’s counterpart funding commitment for flagship projects such as Kampala- Jinja Expressway, the Standard Gauge Railway, the Meter Gauge Railway, electricity for industrial parks, and water supply, etc. The Government plans to allocate Shs 1.38 trillion. (ii) The Government also plans to allocate Shs 111 billion towards the rehabilitation and maintenance of Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) roads, the drainage, and clean up. (iii) The Government has allocated Shs 918 billion for the completion of ongoing road projects, national road maintenance, and District, Urban, and Community Access Roads (DUCAR). (iv) The Government has allocated Shs 200 billion to Science, Technology, and Innovation, including Kiira Motors. (v) The Government has allocated Shs 1.16 trillion towards the enhancement of salaries for primary school teachers, secondary school arts teachers, Business, Technical, Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) staff, enhancement of wage for Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) scientists, and implementation in the welfare of public servants. (vi) The Government has allocated Shs 556.78 billion towards strengthening specialised health facilities, national and regional referral hospitals, and increasing the stock of essential medicines. This was a great development; it was not there before. This is an increment. (vii) The Government has allocated finance for Multi-Sectoral interventions for meeting our commitments to host African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027; Shs 496.3 billion. (viii) The Government has allocated additional financing for security of Shs 318.12 billion. (ix) Furthermore, the Government has allocated Shs 267 billion to support strategic private investments under Uganda Development Corporation (UDC). (x) The Government has allocated Shs 205 billion for infrastructure improvement and research capacity enhancement for all public universities. (xi) The Government has allocated another Shs 205 billion for fast-tracking Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) and Petroleum Authority. (xii) The Government has allocated Shs 145 billion for improving operations of Uganda Airlines. (xiii) And among others, the Government has allocated Shs 100 billion for the restocking of cattle in Northern Uganda. I mentioned the ambulance and others.

18924 THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (NO.2) BILL, 2025 1. Full monetisation of the Uganda’s economy with a proposed allocation of Shs 2.49 trillion for the various wealth creation programmes including the Parish Development Model (PDM,) which was allocated Shs 1.084 trillion. Export guarantee schemes is Shs 180 billion. Funds for women in business, the GROW project, Shs 75.9 billion; Uganda Development Corporation Shs 454.1 billion; Uganda Development Bank, Shs 442.2 billion; Emyooga Shs 100 billion; Youth programs under the State House Shs 58.5 billion; Microfinance Shs 48.5 billion; and the agricultural credit facility Shs 50 billion. 2. Towards maintaining peace, security and the rule of Law, the Government is proposing an allocation of Shs 10.202 trillion. 3. Towards capital development There is a proposed allocation of Shs 13.521 trillion. And this will specifically go where we are proposing enhancement in a phased manner, starting with 25 per cent. I have already mentioned this; the salaries for arts teachers, primary school teachers, secondary school teachers, and businesses, business technical and vocational education training institutions, with a total financing of Shs 554.4 billion. The Government also proposes to allocate an additional Shs 496.3 billion to finance multi- sectoral interventions towards the preparedness - This is beyond the specific money to AFCON, but there are sectors surrounding AFCON’s success and they are giving an extra Shs 496.3 billion to finance multi-sectoral interventions towards preparedness for AFCON 2027. 4. Infrastructure development, that is roads, railways and energy. There is a total allocation of Shs 10.85 trillion, of which roads, railways, water transport and air transport have been allocated Shs 8.788 trillion, and electricity Shs 2.068 trillion. Priority areas include the SGR, meter-gauge railway, road development, especially express highways, including the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, rehabilitation and maintenance of both tarmac and marram roads, the Bukasa port and ferries, and electricity generation, transmission and distribution lines. 5. Manufacturing, with a proposed allocation of Shs 1.048 trillion. The priority areas include the continued development of infrastructure in priority industrial parks. 6. Environmental and natural resource conservation and protection, there is Shs 514.08 billion for environmental protection and restoration. 7. Administration of justice with a proposed allocation of Shs 651.55 billion. 8. Legislation and oversight with a proposed allocation of Shs 1.226 trillion. Number 6.6 Multi-year commitments. Section 12(3) of the PFMA Cap 171 requires the Honourable Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to present to the House, for the next financial year, a company with a statement for the multi- year commitments to be undertaken by the Government in the subsequent financial year. Furthermore, the statement seeks to require Parliament to authorise Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies responsible for implementing development projects that span more than one year to enter into multi-year obligations in order to properly implement projects within the available fiscal space. Accordingly, the multi-year commitment statement for the Financial Year 2026/2027 indicates that Uganda’s Public Investment Plan (PIP) for the Financial Year 2026/2027 to Financial Year 2030/2031 contains 357 projects, of which 306 are ongoing, and 51 are new, with a total investment value of Shs 138.18 trillion. THE VALUE ADDED TAX (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026 [Mr Achia]

18952 THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (NO.2) BILL, 2025 money, and I, each time, brought a report to Parliament. Roko, Shs 263 billion so far. We understand they want more money. Roko, for the last donkey years, has been constructing the parliamentary chambers. Maybe it is also time that we get an update on what is happening to the parliamentary chambers? This is because the date has kept on shifting. The reason I am concerned about that is that this Parliament spends billions of shillings renting office space to MPs and staff at private facilities, Kingdom Kampala and so on. Why are we spending billions of taxpayer money to rent office space yet somebody was paid to build new chambers for Parliament? Why? In addition to that, Roko was given more free money, Shs 263 billion. This was free money, apparently, to bail them out of the debts they were struggling with -

Madam Speaker, I have been in this House since 2006. And I used to be the deputy chairperson of the Budget Committee. There were moments when we did not have money to do anything, and sometime in 2009, inflation went through the roof up to 29 per cent, and the country was in crisis. So for me, when my friend and neighbour, Hon. Ssemujju, asks me, “Why should a Member of Parliament from Karamoja, the deputy chairperson and his brother Hon. Opolot ask us to clap,” it is precisely for that reason, because I have a bit of history on how far we have come. To imagine that today, we are projecting a growth of 10.2 per cent, when we used to have negative growth - we used to have poverty eradication action plans here – we were talking about negative growth because there was nothing happening in Uganda, and it was painful. Even Members of Parliament then were paid Shs 2.4 million a month. These days, we can afford to be given cars worth that amount of money that you guys know. We have come a long way as a country. I did not realise, my brother, that I, as a Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Budget, was making the development plan or a budget for Karamoja, and when you mentioned Karamoja, you kept insisting that “the poverty in your areas - there are no toilets”. I think this budget should address itself to that and as a country we must address wherever poverty is; whether it is in Acholi, West Nile, Lango, Kampala or Kiteezi, it must not be - it will be uncouth of me, Madam Speaker, to propose a budget here that has 30 per cent of the resources going to Karamoja. I think that would be questionable.

Madam Speaker, I rise to react to your communication on the guidance you have given to our side, on the need to bring to this House all the reports of the committees on public accounts. I will relay that information to the respective committee chairpersons and ensure that those reports are laid in time. Secondly, from your left hand side, I also join you and Ugandans in mourning the late honourable minister, Eng. Ntege, whom we had the opportunity to work with in this House. When she was the Minister of Works and Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Annet Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

We agree, and this is what we are trying to achieve. There is a definition of associate. What we are trying to do is about transfer pricing. This is what we are looking at. I want to ask the minister about transfer pricing between Kampala and Mbale. I have a company in Kampala invoicing a company in Mbale. This means, if I under- invoice here, the one in Mbale will make more profit, and that profit will be taxed in Uganda, so there is no loss.

He will answer. Madam Speaker, if the Government is committed, for example, that every Ugandan must live in a decent accommodation, which it is not providing - they must eat healthy food or pay for their children to go to school. Do you really think Shs 335,000 here in Kampala or in most of the urban cities, after you have deducted the minimum for housing per month, food, paying school fees, would be fair? My opinion is that we are moving probably much higher than that. I do not intend to distort, but I want the minister to take that into consideration. In Kenya, for example, PAYE’s threshold, I think, is now close to Shs 7.2 per annum, or something like Shs 600,000. Below that, they do not pay. Madam Chairperson, we are in the same geographical location. So why don’t we move a little bit higher?

Madam Chairperson, people who are in education would understand this, because I told you my parents were teachers. There was a reasoning, because I told you my parents were teachers, that where a teacher studies also has a great influence on how they deliver. That is why we had all these PTCs in the localities where the children are. It informs the teachers’ delivery methods. Now, these national teachers will be in one centre, probably here in Kampala or anywhere. The cost of transport, the cost of -

18802 TRIBUTE TO HON. HELEN NAKIMULI Wednesday, 22 April 2026 of Parliament for a long time, yet she has only served one term. Being a friend to all workers in Parliament, right from the sweepers up to all Members of Parliament, both in the Opposition and Government, is what Hon. Nakimuli was. Honourable members, you may fondly recall the number of victorious trophies that we got in this Parliament in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) games, which were won by Hon. Nakimuli. (Applause) I request that those trophies be laid on the Table for this Parliament to appreciate the contribution Hon. Nakimuli has made to this House and to East Africa. My attention was drawn to her community empowerment initiative long before she became a Member of Parliament. The fruit of her transformative leadership is evident in Kalangala District, which she ably represented as a Member of Parliament, the sports fraternity, and the Orthodox community, where she was a faithful believer. It is against this formidable leadership foundation that the deceased had secured an election for the 12 th Parliament. Hon. Nakimuli has been a Member of the 11 th Parliament, and she is also a Member-elect of the 12 th Parliament. Unfortunately, she has not been able to see the 12 th Parliament. It is a painful thing considering all the struggles that she went through. We will miss her if we get to the 12 th Parliament. Hon. Nakimuli’s legacy teaches us that it is not about how long we live in this world, but how impactful our lives are. You may live longer, but have no impact. However, you can live for IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - SPECIAL SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was Called to Order COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker and honourable members, this is my justification: we are here today, to remember and bid farewell to an extraordinary colleague and friend. On Sunday, 19 April 2026, we received the sad news of the demise of Hon. Helen Nakimuli, the Woman Representative for Kalangala District in the 11 th Parliament of Uganda, at Alexandra Medical Center, Kitante Road, Kampala. Today, we grieve her loss and we hold in our hearts and prayers, her family.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As a Member of Parliament for Ngariam County and on behalf of my family, I would like to begin by extending condolences to the bereaved family of my sister, Hon. Nakimuli, and the people of Kalangala District. It is on record that the last time I appeared before this House was last Wednesday, when I presented a statement regarding a matter the Leader of the Opposition had requested in line with our preparedness for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), 2027. Honourable colleagues, the late, as we all know, had a passion for sports. She was an athlete and one who played many disciplines of sports. Those who attended the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games can bear me witness. (Applause) If you all recall, the late got injured on the netball court and twisted her leg during the competition, which was in Kigali, Rwanda. However, that did not stop her from representing the Parliament of Uganda. Let us clap for her. (Applause) I am happy that my honourable colleague, the Shadow Minister for Sports, is here. In line with the discussion we had concerning our preparedness for AFCON, we had agreed to visit Hoima City Stadium this Friday and look at other attendant training facilities we are working on, including a visit to Kabalega International Airport. We are doing this because it is in line with the observations that my sister had raised on the Floor of this Parliament. It is unfortunate that today, as Uganda hosts the team of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) together with the Pamoja countries here in Kampala, which meeting started this morning up to now, I had to excuse myself to come and pay my respects to our dear fallen sister. Honourable colleagues, I have been here for some time. I am happy we are all here to pay respects to our departed sister. She has left us with a living flower. We are good at making speeches but what do we leave with the flower that our sister has left us with? It is my humble appeal, honourable colleagues - in the Ninth, 10 th, and 11 th Parliaments, we did it. If we truly believe in the love of our sister, why don’t we contribute, as Members of Parliament, to support the family of our departed honourable colleague, particularly regarding the education of the daughter? (Applause) Madam Speaker, it is my humble appeal that the Parliamentary Commission deducts a direct fee from each one of us, the 529 Members of Parliament, to contribute to the education of our late sister’s daughter who is here. I request that we deduct Shs 500,000 from each of our accounts. (Applause) I bring this up because as a sportswoman, the late gave her life to support and carry the flag of the Parliament of Uganda in the sports fraternity in the East African Community. This helped in widening, deepening and strengthening the East African Community integration. I beg to move.

Presidential candidate, you are welcome. Honourable members, in a bid to provide a way and means of financing the Government expenditure plan for the next financial year, this week we will consider the Tax and Revenue Bills pursuant to Rule 157 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 8TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.01 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, as you have said, these Tax proposals were tabled in Parliament and forwarded to the committee for consideration. The committee hereby reports. The Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was read for the first time on the 1st of April 2026 by the state ministry for finance. The minister also laid a Certificate of Financial Implications, indicating that the expected revenue gain is approximately Shs 353 billion annually. The committee scrutinised the Bill in accordance with Rule 135(2), (3) and (4) of the Rules of Procedure and now begs to report. Allow me to go straight to the committee’s observations. However, I would like to put it on record that we captured the object of the Bill as well as the methodology. We reviewed a number of documents and interacted with the public in several meetings. For the record, we met with: i) Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; ii) Uganda Revenue Authority; iii) Private Sector Foundation Uganda; iv) PricewaterhouseCoopers; v) Uganda Bankers’ Association; vi) Justice Alliance Uganda; vii) Uganda National Traders Alliance; viii) Uganda Manufacturers’ Association; ix) Uganda Hotel Owners’ Association; x) Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda; xi) The Kampala City Traders Association; xii) Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group; xiii) Uganda Insurers Association; xiv) Uganda Alcohol Policy Alliance; xv) Uganda Advertising Association, National Association of Broadcasters and Uganda Media Owners Association; xvi) Federation of Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises; and xvii) MTN Uganda Limited. The committee observes and recommends as follows: Disapplication of VAT where a designated person is issued an e-invoice and e-receipt Clause 2 of the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2006 seeks to insert a new subsection after section 5(6) to disapply this section from a designated person where the designated person pays for taxable supplies and is issued with an e-invoice and e-receipt in accordance with Section 92 of the Tax Procedures Code Act. Section 92 of the Tax Procedures Code Act provides for electronic receipting and electronic invoicing. The ministry indicated that, currently, certain taxpayers - typically large businesses - are appointed as withholding agents. Whenever they pay for goods and services, they must withhold six per cent out of the 18 per cent VAT and remit it directly to Uganda Revenue Authority. This applies even where the supplier has issued a valid electronic invoice. As a result, the supplier receives only 12 per cent VAT instead of the full 18 per cent, which creates cash flow challenges. In such cases, the supplier will receive the full VAT amount because URA can already track the transaction electronically. The committee observed that: i) The amendment promotes the use of the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoice System (EFRIS); and ii) With the proposed amendment, the supplier will now have a full 18 per cent VAT, thereby addressing the prevailing cash flow challenges.

18722 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT [Mr Masaba] Shs 500 million, these enterprises can retain more working capital. In a developing economy like Uganda, where access to affordable credit is limited, this interest-free liquidity is vital for day-to-day operations and survival. For the record, Hon. Silwany was asking for the minutes. All the witnesses who came before us had requested us to increase it to about Shs 500 million. The Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) initially proposed that the threshold be increased to about Shs 1 billion. In their meeting with the President, they came to a neutral ground of about Shs 500 million. Therefore, as committee members who signed this minority report, we were surprised that the committee is instead going with the position that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development is proposing instead of the one that all the witnesses agreed to. Clause IV of the Bill is our second area of dissent. We object to the proposed change in Section 28 of the principal Act. We want to lower the investment threshold and extend the input tax credit window, specifically, the entry barrier for local investors. We are looking at our Ugandans. This section deals with both the foreigners and locals so, our area of dissent is the threshold on investors – (Interjections) - yes, under the hotels. The current threshold of $10 million for foreigners and $5 million for citizens is prohibitive for many domestic investors. Reducing the requirement to $500,000 for local investors investing in rural areas, and maintaining the committee position of $1.4 million for those in urban areas, is our proposal. We want to have a different rate for those who are investing in the rural areas. Madam Speaker, high thresholds favour large multinational chains that often repatriate profits. Lower thresholds empower local enterprises to build facilities that reflect indigenous culture and retain wealth within the country. For instance, a local investor wanting to build a 20-room eco-lodge in the Sipi Falls or Mount Elgon area may struggle to hit the target of $5 million or $1.5 million. However, at about $500,000, they can afford high-quality construction and modern amenities, qualifying for Value-Added Tax (VAT) relief on building materials and professional services, which significantly lowers their initial sunk costs. We also want to bridge the gap between rural and urban development. Madam Speaker, most high-end tourism facilities are clustered in urban centres as well as well-established parks, leaving areas that are not yet well-established, like the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, underserved. By making the rural threshold three times lower than the urban threshold, the Government creates a powerful attraction to invest in these areas. This compensates for the higher logistical costs, transporting materials to remote areas, and the lack of existing infrastructure. Extending the input VAT credit window from two to 10 years is the most appropriate thing, because a hotel is a heavy asset business, including land acquisition, environmental impact assessment, actual designs, and the actual construction of specialised facilities. Two years is rarely enough. If an investor buys steel and cement in one year but does not open the doors until four years, under the old law, they would lose the ability to offset the VAT paid on these initial materials. Similarly, a resort project in a rural setting might face delays due to seasonal rains or the slow installation of facilities such as power. A 10-year window ensures that the investor can recover their VAT once they start generating taxable sales regarding the construction. In simple terms, someone who is constructing a hotel can claim VAT on construction materials - currently, it is up to about six months - as long as the hotel is not commissioned yet. If I am building my hotel and I claim VAT, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) can only refund it on building materials I bought six months ago. The committee position is for two years. Our

I thought my senior colleague, Hon. Oboth, was following the report but when I presented the report, my view was that we need to have a way of intensifying more of our people who are investing in rural areas like - because when you look at people investing in Kampala, urban areas and the developed national parks, they have the capacity. But there are people who are investing in the tourism sector in areas that are still underdeveloped, like Kapchorwa. You will not find anyone investing $ 5 million in Kapchorwa or Wanale.

Madam Chairperson, Kampala is an urban area. Let me give an example – Hon. Kateshumbwa should listen to this. Is Kisoro, where Bwindi is, urban? It is rural. Yet, the tourists go there more than they go to Mbale Town or Jinja, because of the gorillas and whatever. We have to be very careful about what is urban and where the tourist attractions are.

Madam Chairperson, the information that I want to give my brother is this. Yes, we are aware of the high-impact investments, but in terms of location, if you come to a district like Kumi, you hardly find a factory. Nobody wants to invest there. We want to motivate people to invest in all parts of the country, not only Namanve or Kampala. For me, that is the thing. Location should move with the pricing. The two should be intertwined.

18745 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 21 APRIL 2026 it together, and we might reconsider it next year because this is annual. That is what we are trying to persuade you about. We are not saying that you should drop the entire clause as it is. The committee has agreed with you on foreign investors; big tick. You can clap for yourself on that - (Laughter)- but they are saying that on your own people in Rukiga, please go down a bit. He has further suggested that in the rural areas, do it this way. In Rubanda, someone is trying to put up a structure in order to harvest some money from tourists who are crossing from Rwanda or Congo. Can we go down to $500,000? When it comes to municipalities in Entebbe and others in Kampala, let it be $1 million or $1.5 million as they have proposed, so that next year we see whether it has been attractive to people. Has it helped us in any way? In any way, this is a waiver to others. As you waive for the foreigners’ input, we are also saying, relax for our nationals and give a longer threshold because the justifications have been clear. Name one hotel that has been built in two years. If you name one, we give it to you as it is.

Madam Speaker, the Excise Duty (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was laid for the first time in the House on 1 April 2026 and forwarded to the committee for consideration and the committee is ready to report. We looked at the object of the Bill, the methodology; the meetings with the public and other stakeholders. I would like to mention that we met the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Uganda Revenue Authority, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda, the private sector, Tax Justice Alliance Uganda, Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group, Uganda Alcohol Policy Alliance, Uganda National Traders Alliance, Uganda manufacturers, Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), Uganda Insurance Association, Uganda Bankers Association, MTN Uganda, Federation of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises and Uganda Tobacco Taxation Coalition. Madam Speaker, documents were also reviewed. The observations and recommendations of the committee are here below: Increase on excise duty on any other undenatured spirits Clause 2(a) of the Bill proposes an amendment to Schedule 2 of the Excise Duty Act under item 3(c)(ii), by increasing the excise duty on imported undenatured spirits with alcohol strength by volume of less than 80 per cent. The proposed amendment seeks to increase the excise duty from 80 per cent or Shs 1,700 per litre, whichever is higher, to 80 per cent or Shs 3,500 per litre, whichever is higher. The ministry informed the committee that the amendment seeks to discourage the importation of relatively cheap spirits that compete with locally produced alternatives. It also aims to support domestic manufacturers by creating a level playing field and a competitive environment. The measure is expected to increase the Government revenue by raising the effective tax collection on imported alcohol beverages, as they have a relatively inelastic demand and are consumed mostly by the wealthy. The committee observed that – i. The proposed amendment aims to increase excise duty by Shs 1,800 on imported undenatured spirits whose alcohol strength by volume is less than 80 per cent; ii. The amendment will make locally produced undenatured spirits competitive; iii. There is a need for the Government to establish a joint Government-private sector task force on illicit alcohol with a focus on upstream supply chain enforcement, coordinated multi-agency enforcement, consumer awareness on health risks, and legislative review of the regulatory gaps.

18751 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 21 APRIL 2026 The committee, therefore, recommends that clause 2(d) be adopted with the proposed amendments of an increase of Shs 200 per kilogramme. Excise duty on plastics Clause 2(c) of the Bill proposes an amendment to item 11 of schedule 2 by changing the parameters for plastics. The current provision had specified the type of plastics under codes. These codes have been removed under the proposed provision. The proposal also seeks to tax disposable plastic cups, lids, plates and cutlery; bags, sackets, bottles, straws, and stirrers, cling films and wraps, jars, and lids. The rate of tax has changed from $70 to $1,500 per tonne. The ministry indicated that the proposed amendment expands the scope to cover most single-use plastics, which are a major source of environmental pollution. These materials contribute to waste accumulation and have been linked to floods, particularly in urban areas such as Kampala. The proposal also harmonises Uganda’s tax treatment of plastics with other East African Community (EAC) countries by applying a higher and more consistent rate across major plastic pollutants. The rationale is to discourage the use of non-essential and single-use plastics while protecting critical uses. By increasing the cost of these products, the measure encourages more sustainable alternatives, reduces environmental damage and supports responsible consumption. At the same time, it strengthens revenue collection and improves clarity in the taxation of plastic products. The committee observed that: i) the amendment intends to promote environmental conservation by targeting single-use plastics given that they are an environmental hazard; ii) the amendment does not cover plastic products and granules; and iii) manufacturers who recycle plastics need to be incentivised, provided they meet recycling standards and verification requirements. The committee, therefore, recommends that clause 2(c) of the Bill be adopted with the proposed amendment to include plastic products and granules under the description in item 11(a). Increase of excise duty on cooking oil and introduction of excise duty on cooking fat Clause 2(f) of the Bill intends to increase excise duty on cooking oil from Shs 200 per litre to Shs 400 per litre. The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development stated that the amendment is intended to increase Government revenue by updating the duty rate to reflect current market prices and consumption levels. The existing rate has become less effective over time due to inflation and changes in the market. In addition, the measure may have public health benefits by increasing the cost of cooking oil and discouraging excessive consumption, which is associated with non- communicable diseases. Relatedly, clause 2(b) of the Bill proposes an insertion of a new item, (29), to provide for cooking fat. The finance ministry informed the committee that the main objective is to broaden the tax base and improve revenue collection by bringing cooking fat into the excise duty framework. Cooking fat is closely related to cooking oil yet it has been treated differently for tax purposes. This has created opportunities for tax avoidance and some manufacturers misclassify cooking oil as cooking fat to benefit from low taxes. The amendment closes this gap and promotes fairness in taxation. The measure is also expected to improve compliance by making it easier to tax products that are widely used and difficult to monitor directly. In addition, the proposal may have public health benefits. Higher taxes on cooking fat can discourage excessive consumption which is linked to diet-related illnesses such as obesity and heart disease. The committee observed that:

18752 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT i) the amendment is intended to adjust the duty of cooking oil to Shs 400 per litre as opposed to Shs 200 per litre, which represents a reasonable measure to account for inflation and restore the real value of tax; ii) cooking fat and cooking oil are functionally similar products yet the differential tax treatment has created opportunities for revenue leakages through misclassification by some manufacturers; iii) bringing cooking fat under the excise duty regime will promote fairness and equity in taxation of edible oils and fat ensuring that similar products face comparable tax; iv) the proposed measure may contribute to public health objectives by increasing the cost of cooking fat, thereby discouraging excessive consumption, which is associated with non-communicable diseases; and v) while the amendment is necessary to close the existing gap, implementation should be accompanied by clear guidelines distinguishing cooking oil from cooking fat to avoid unintended disputes and compliance burdens on legitimate manufacturers. The committee therefore recommends that clause 2(f) of the Bill be adopted. Registration of motorcycles Clause 2(g) of the Bill seeks to increase excise duty on motorcycles at first registration from Shs 200,000 to Shs 500,000. According to the finance ministry, the amendment is intended to increase Government revenue by capturing more value from the rapidly growing sector. Motorcycle use has expanded significantly, especially in urban areas such as Kampala, making it an important and reliable tax base. In addition, this duty is often the main point of taxation for motorcycle operators, particularly Boda boda riders, who may not be easily reachable through income tax. It therefore serves as a practical proxy for taxing this segment of the economy. The committee observed that imposing excise duty at a point of first registration ensures the revenue is effectively collected from this growing segment of the economy. The committee recommends that clause 2(g) be adopted. Introduction of excise duty on paint, varnishes and lacquers Clause 2(h) of the Bill proposes to introduce excise duty for paints. Locally manufactured paints, varnishes and lacquers will be charged 3 per cent or Shs 50 per litre or kilogramme, whichever is higher, and imported paints, varnishes and lacquers will be charged 10 per cent or Shs 2,000 per litre or per kilogramme, whichever is higher. The finance ministry informed the committee that the construction sector is one of the fastest growing in Uganda, contributing about 5.5 per cent to GDP but its contribution is less than 2.7 per cent to total revenue collected. The proposed tax uses paints and related products as a proxy to capture revenue from this sector. The measure is also intended to improve compliance. Under-declaration of products and sales is common in the sector, making direct taxation difficult. By taxing key inputs such as paint, the Government can collect revenue more efficiently. The committee observed that: i) introduction of excise duty on paints, varnishes, and lacquers will broaden the tax base and generate additional revenue from the rapidly expanding construction industry; and ii) to protect local manufacturers, a lower rate shall be applied to the locally produced paints, varnishes and lacquers compared to imported ones. Differential taxation will encourage local production, support job creation and value addition in the paints and coatings subsector. THE EXCISE DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026 [Mr Kankunda]

Madam Speaker, the issue of cement is very serious. We are very lucky in Tororo and we need to find out why Tororo has the three biggest cement plants in this country. The reason is that Tororo is a hub for distributing cement to Sudan, Kenya, Kampala and DRC. Madam Speaker, if we increase this tax - our cement is exported to DRC and as we talk, Rwanda has cement plants that were almost out of production. The two cement plants have now emerged, and they are producing cement in a very big quantity and competing with us for the market in DRC. It is going to have a serious impact on us. You will lose the tax you are proposing to collect because more than 50 per cent of cement produced here is sold in DRC. Madam Speaker, sugar employs more than 80,000 young people. We need to find out why we majorly export sugar to the DRC. In fact, as we talk and because of geopolitical reasons, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi bring sugar from Brazil, re-bag it as East African sugar and it is entering DRC. Honourable minister, you need to carry out research when you want to introduce tax. Look at the region. If you increase the tax on sugar, you will allow sugar from other regions to enter DRC, and we will not have a market for our sugar. The other issue pertains to boda bodas. Many young people who clobber people in town are in the boda boda industry. By increasing the THE EXCISE DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026 [Ms Galiwango]

18778 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT We want to make the record clear that the second-hand clothing popularly referred to as “Mivumba ” is an essential good, not a luxury. Increasing taxes on essentials affects the poor. According to the Ugandan Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) 2024 Census and UNDP 2025 reports, approximately 57.2 per cent of Ugandans are suffering from multidimensional poverty, with an additional 23.6 per cent vulnerable to falling into poverty. This means that almost 80 per cent (57.2 plus 23.6) are poor. To put this into perspective for an average wage of Shs 500, a new blazer or suit from a simple shop goes for over Shs 200, nearly half the monthly income. In contrast, a high-quality second blazer at Owino market costs roughly Shs 40. Doubling the tax from 15 per cent to 30 per cent places a heavy burden on the very poor, who rely on these items for school uniforms, work attire, and basic dignity. Secondly, the government’s goal of protecting local industry is premature and does not hold water, as the domestic textile infrastructure we have currently cannot meet national demand. For your information, statistics show that Uganda will export a vast majority of its cotton lint rather than processing it into finished garments locally. This means increasing tax on the only affordable alternative before the local industry has the capacity, variety and price competitiveness to replace it creates a clothing vacuum. Thirdly, the second-hand clothing trade employs many people in Uganda, particularly in urban centres like Kampala. These are not just traders; they are youth and women who rely on small-scale retail trade for survival. An attempt to increase tax by 100 per cent is an attempt to close their business. While we support Buy Uganda, Build Uganda, the proposed Section 3C Environmental levy ignores the current 80 per cent poverty and vulnerability rate. This tax increase penalises the poor for their lack of purchasing power without offering a functional, affordable local alternative. Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), a multi-sectoral business support association, while appearing before the Committee on Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, expressed serious concerns about doubling the environmental levy from 15 per cent to 30 per cent. Maintaining that already traders are subjected to multiple taxes, including import duty at 35 per cent, VAT at 18 per cent, withholding tax at six per cent, and, currently, a 15 per cent surcharge. Madam Speaker, although the environmental levy is not VAT, it is expected to increase the taxable import value. In practice, this raises the VAT payable on importation. Since VAT is generally calculated on the customs value plus applicable duties and levies, the measure will make imported second-hand garments significantly more expensive from a VAT- inclusive price perspective. The idea of reinforcing the Government policy objective of discouraging such imports while protecting domestic production under Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) will disenfranchise many people in the business and those who can only afford second-hand clothes. We, therefore, urge the Government to stay this proposal until it provides incentives for local textile manufacturers to lower costs before imposing a punitive levy on clothing. We object to doubling the environmental levy on second- hand clothing that makes up the vast majority of the clothes purchased by the middle- and low-income Ugandans. I submit.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for allowing me to raise this matter. The Government is giving out money to the elderly through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. In Kalungu District, we have a very big challenge, which might also be in other districts. These elderly people are supposed to pick up money from the sub-county headquarters. The challenge we are facing is that some of them are too old. They cannot afford to move, and if they are to move, they spend almost half of what they would get. I request the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to devise means - because their children and grandchildren are there; they have their national IDs and the details of their grandparents, but they have tried to ask to go and pick the money, but these parish chiefs have refused. Imagine a person of 85 years who is indisposed has to be taken to the sub- county headquarters to pick Shs 70,000. Madam Speaker, I pray that the leadership in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development devises means of how these elderly can pick up their money, but forcing IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 7TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18619 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 The committee, therefore, recommends and urges the Government to: 1. Publish a project-by-project PAP clearance schedule with quarterly targets, ring-fence Shs 689.5 billion Land Acquisition II budget for immediate release in the first quarter of the Financial Year 2026/2027, and establish independent verification of disbursements to actual PAPs; and 2. Treat counterpart funding for land acquisition as a statutory first call on programme resources in line with the second BCC directive, ensuring it is released before any other discretionary expenditure in the first quarter. Low releases and absorption of external financing In respect to this, the committee notes with grave concern that while Shs 1.4 trillion, representing 34.4 per cent of the external budget was released to the vote, only Shs 193.3 billion was actually spent. This means that 86.2 per cent of the released external funds remained unabsorbed as at half year. Expressed against the original approval budget, only 4.7 per cent of Shs 4.0 trillion external budget was spent by mid-year. This is not a funding shortage but a structural implementation failure rooted in the absence of counterpart resources for land acquisition and PAP compensation, making the large external budget envelope essentially inaccessible despite its formal approval. The committee further notes that with the Financial Year 2026/2027 external financing budget rising to Shs 4.3 trillion, a continuation of 13.8 per cent absorption rate would imply only approximately Shs 606 billion in actual expenditure, leaving Shs 3.7 trillion unspent and generating additional commitment charges. Madam Speaker, the committee, therefore, recommends: 1) Mandatory project readiness certification. The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, in co-ordination with the Ministry of Works and Transport and the National Planning Authority (NPA), should institute a mandatory project readiness certification process for all externally financed projects before inclusion in the annual budget. No externally financed project should receive budget allocation unless it has; a) A completed feasibility study; b) Approved detailed engineering designs; c) Completed environmental social impact assessment; d) Confirmed land right-of-way availability of at least 80 per cent; and e) A signed and effective loan grant agreement. Projects that do not meet these criteria should be removed from the budget estimates and placed in a pipeline category until readiness is established. 2) The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works and Transport should negotiate and publish a synchronised annual disbursement calendar with each development partner financing projects under Vote 016. This calendar should align the Government of Uganda counterpart releases with donor disbursement triggers, ensuring that Government of Uganda’s quarterly cash budgeting framework does not create artificial delays in accessing externally financed resources. 7.1.4 The Standard Gauge Railway Financing Gaps and Implementation Risks The Standard Gauge Railway from Malaba to Kampala is Uganda’s single most capital- intensive infrastructure investment and a cornerstone of the NDPIV tenfold growth strategy. As a key component of the East African Railway Master Plan and the Northern Corridor Integrated Projects, the 272-kilometre Malaba-Kampala section, (phase I of a planned 1,700-kilometre network) will link Uganda’s capital to the port of Mombasa, reducing

18620 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 logistics costs, decongesting highways, and enabling the oil and gas sector. Madam Speaker, the committee notes with concern the following: a) The Islamic Development Bank commitment of €410 million covers only 15 per cent of the €2.7 billion project cost, with over €2.2 billion unconfirmed, creating material risks to the November 2026 financial closure deadline; b) Shs 491.9 billion (60 per cent) in the project- affected person compensation remains unpaid, with 5,028 PAPs uncompensated, predominantly in the dense urban Buikwe- Mukono-Wakiso-Kampala corridor, directly threatening right-of-way clearance and lender conditionalities; c) Only 47 per cent of acquired land has been formally titled, exposing untitled parcels to legal encumbrance risks; d) There is no publicly disclosed revenue model or debt service schedule to demonstrate Standard Gauge Railway’s fiscal viability against its €2.7 billion debt obligation; and e) Uganda already lost eight years (2015- 2023). Between 2015 and January 2023, the Government of Uganda maintained a contractual arrangement with China Harbour Engineering Company for the construction of the Malaba-Kampala section. However, the contract was terminated in January 2023 after eight consecutive years of failure to execute, during which financing negotiations with Chinese lenders stalled due to the connectivity concerns with Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway. Madam Speaker, the committee, therefore, recommends that the Government: i) Presents to Parliament by end of quarter one of the Financial Year 2026/2027, a comprehensive Standard Gauge Railway financing plan with confirmed lender commitments, co-financing structure for the remaining €2.2 billion, and a contingency strategy if November 2026 financial closure is not achieved; ii) Fast-tracks release of the outstanding Uganda Shs 491 billion PAP compensation with priority ring-fencing for the Buikwe- Mukono-Wakiso-Kampala corridor, and operationalise an independent grievance redress mechanism for contested valuations with clear timelines; iii) Directs the Uganda Land Commission to complete titling and transfer all 2,001 acquired Standard Gauge Railway acres within six months; iv) Tables a dedicated debt sustainability analysis for the Standard Gauge Railway before financial closure, incorporating revenue projections, freight tariff structures, and debt service schedules; and v) Submits quarterly Standard Gauge Railway progress reports to the physical infrastructure committee from April 2026 until financial closure and full construction commencement, covering financing, land acquisition, Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP) works, local content compliance, and Uganda-Kenya coordination. 7.1.5 The Government Debtors to Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) A total of Shs 152.538 billion, representing 77 per cent of the total trade debtors and receivables. These funds related to unpaid for services, security, navigation services and rent. The accumulation of long outstanding Government debtors constrains Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s cash flow and exposes the authority to a heightened risk of revenue loss and impaired service delivery. The committee was informed that delayed payment of these debts has constrained the timely expansion, harmonisation, and replacement of safety capital investments at Entebbe International Airport. I invite the Members to look through the table of debtors as at 31 March 2026. In respect to that, the committee recommends that the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority/ Ministry of Works liaise with Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to come up with a repayment schedule from the aforementioned MDAs where deductions can

18621 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 be carried out at source quarterly. Further, the affected MDAs are also urged to incorporate within their budgets specified funds in order to enable them clear arrears accrued towards UCAA. The committee was informed that in regards to funds owed by the UN to the Uganda Civil Aviation, there is an MOU that states that the UN will operate at Entebbe International Airport at no cost and that UCAA will be compensated for the foregone income. The committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry of Works liaise with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Office of the Prime Minister to have the matter resolved and report back to Parliament in the medium term. 7.1.6 The relocation of NAGRIC from the airport The committee was informed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority that it acquired 67.4 acres of land formerly owned by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF)/ National Animal Genetic Resources Centre (NAGRIC) to facilitate the expansion of Entebbe International Airport. In order to facilitate the acquisition, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority paid Shs 2.4 billion on 20 August 2019 to MAAIF, which would enable them to relocate to land measuring 76.5 acres in Kyanuma village, Busiro. In respect to that, the committee noted that this issue was raised in the committee report of the Financial Year 2025/2026, urging MAAIF and NAGRIC to relocate and pave the way for the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority given that funds were received in lieu of the land by NAGRIC, but the status quo remains the same. The committee recommends and urges the ministers for Works and Transport and Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, in consultation with the Office of the Prime Minister, to come up with an amicable solution to the land under dispute and report back to Parliament in the medium term. 7.1.7 Ferries and inland water transport safety Ferry services in Uganda are primarily managed by Uganda National Roads Department in the Ministry of Works and Transport and private operators. They are critical infrastructure in connecting rural communities and bridging road networks across Lake Victoria, Kyoga, Albert, and the River Nile. These services significantly reduce travel times for people and cargo by serving key areas like Kalangala, Buvuma, and the Buyende-Kaberamaido route. The committee noted that inland water transport has been neglected over time with concerns about limited connectivity, ferry breakdowns, and makeshift boat use, persisting with up to 5,000 deaths occurring annually on Lake Victoria alone due to boat accidents. Madam Speaker, in respect to that, the committee takes into cognizance the ministry’s efforts towards construction of the Search and Rescue (SAR) centres and recommends that SAR centres be evenly distributed, constructed across all major water bodies. Further, island communities should be regularly sensitised on safe water transport usage given that most accidents are due to human error, like overloading, and most boats being in poor mechanical conditions. Further emphasis should be placed on regular vessel inspections in order to ensure compliance with set standards. 7.1.8 Operationalisation of the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) Project. The committee noted that the Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) is in the process of rehabilitating and upgrading the aging MGR network, including Malaba-Kampala, Tororo- Gulu, and expanding the commuter passenger services in the greater Kampala Metropolitan area under their strategic plan for Financial Year 2025/2026-2029/2030. Madam Speaker, the committee noted that in Financial Year 2026/2027, the Government has allocated Shs 161 billion to the Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) towards the

18622 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 full operationalisation of the Tororo-Gulu line, including rehabilitation of 600 wagons, rehabilitation of locomotives, and wage support. The committee recommends that the URC prioritises the full operationalisation of the meter-gauge railway, as this will go a long way in alleviating congestion in both cargo and passenger services on the already struggling road network. Road Fund Management The committee noted that while the Road Fund Management Department, formerly the Uganda Road Fund, is mandated to finance routine and periodic maintenance of public roads in Uganda, it is grossly underfunded. The Fund is supposed to raise monies independent of general Government taxation regimes and disperse those funds to repair and maintain roads based on an agreed work plan. Madam Speaker, the agencies that repair and maintain Uganda’s roads and therefore benefit from the monies accrued by the Road Fund Management include Kampala Capital City Authority and other designated agencies responsible for maintenance and repair of district, urban, and community-access roads. Recommendations i) The committee recommends and urges the Government to fully operationalise the Road Fund to enable it to operate with the resources drawn from the second- generation fund, as resolved by Parliament; ii) Further, the committee recommends that road and drainage maintenance under the Uganda Road Fund be allocated additional resources to enable it to fully carry out its mandate; and iii) The committee also recommends that the Government come up with a programme specifically geared towards sensitising the populace on proper garbage disposal and enforcement of attendant penalties. This may help curb the poor culture towards garbage disposal. Vote 122: Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) The reduction in infrastructure budget allocation under Kampala Capital City Authority The infrastructure budget for Kampala Capital City Authority is on a downward trajectory at a time when the city’s road network and drainage systems require expanded investment. The reduction in the KCCA’s budget under the Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services (ITIS) programme undermines KCCA’s capacity to address the growing urban mobility and infrastructural maintenance challenges confronting the capital city. The committee was informed that KCCA’s total allocation under the Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services programme has decreased from Shs 621.8 billion in the Financial Year 2025/2026 to Shs 529.7 billion in the Financial Year 2026/2027; a reduction of Shs 92.1 billion – that is 14.8 per cent. The committee notes that this reduction is principally driven by the removal of Shs 140 billion allocated for the commencement of the Kampala City Roads and Bridges Upgrading Project, funded by the UK Export Finance in the second Budget Call Circular. In respect to that, the committee, therefore, recommends the reinstatement of the Shs 140 billion allocated for the Kampala City Roads and Bridges Upgrading Project (KCRBUP) in the Financial Year 2026/2027 to enable timely project commencement, given that the UK Export Finance facility is already secured and further delay risks lapsing of the credit arrangement. Critically Low Absorption of External Financing Under KCCA’s Infrastructure Budget External financing constitutes the single largest component of KCCA’s infrastructure budget, and its effective absorption is the primary determinant of whether the Capital City’s Strategic Road Rehabilitation and Urban Development Programmes deliver tangible results.

18623 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 Madam Speaker, the half-year performance data reveal a deeply concerning pattern of under-absorption that, if sustained, renders the expanded external financing envelope largely illusionary. The committee was informed that as at the end of quarter two of the Financial Year 2025/2026, the overall absorption rate under KCCA stood at only 46.1 per cent, with Shs 138.7 billion spent out of the Shs 300.4 billion released. Externally-financed projects recorded particularly weak performance. The KCRRP spent only Shs 65.4 billion of Shs 199.0 billion, while the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area spent only Shs 7.3 billion of Shs 32.5 billion released. The committee notes that although KCCA reports improved performance by March 2026, with overall Vote absorption rising to 73.5 per cent, external financing improved from 32.86 to 56.5 per cent. In respect to that, the committee recommends and urges the Government to; i) Ensure that all prerequisite activities, including utility relocations, right-of-way acquisition, and donor approval processes, are completed before the start of Financial Year 2026/2027 so that construction can proceed unimpeded from quarter one’ and ii) Engage development partners, the African Development Bank and the World Bank, proactively to streamline the no-objection approval processes and reduce approval turnaround times. The persistent implementation delays under the Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP) The KCRRP, valued at $288 million – that is about Shs 1.0 trillion – funded by the African Development Bank, the Global Environmental Fund, and the Government of Uganda, is the single largest infrastructure investment in Kampala’s road network. Its timely completion is critical, enhancing transport efficiency and expanding the stock of paved roads in the capital city. However, the project has experienced significant implementation delays across multiple lots. I invite honourable colleagues to go through lots 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The committee, therefore, observes that the KCRRP commenced in the Financial Year 2021/2022 and has been under implementation for over four years, yet overall progress remains below two-thirds. Lots 2, 3, and 4, which together account for 61.6 kilometres – that is 66 per cent of the total KCRRP scope – are all significantly behind schedule. Of particular concern is that the zero kilometre of paved road has been delivered under lot 2, despite over 50 per cent physical project progress, suggesting that completed works are concentrated in sub-base and drainage activities, with no finished road surface yet handed over. The committee, therefore, recommends and urges the government to: i) Direct KCCA to present a revised lot- by-lot completion schedule with realistic milestones, including monthly paved kilometre targets, to the committee by the end of quarter one of the Financial Year 2026/2027; and ii) Ensure that the Financial Year 2026/2027 KCRRP allocation of Shs 122.3 billion is released in full and on time to prevent further construction stoppages; and iii) Investigate and report to the committee on the specific factors causing delayed progress on Kasubi, Northern Bypass Road, Queen’s Way and Nsambya road/ Hanlon Junction, with remedial action timelines. The slow progress under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme The Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme valued at $606 million and funded by the World Bank and the French Development Agency under a Programme-for-Results financing modality,

18624 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 is the most significant urban development intervention in Kampala. Madam Speaker, in the interest of time, the committee recommends and urges the Government to: i) Direct KCCA to present a revised realistic completion schedule for the five GKMA- UDP road lots, with interim milestones and clear accountability mechanisms for each contractor; ii) Expedite right-of-way acquisition, particularly for Katalemwa Road and Muganzirwazza Road, through accelerated stakeholder engagement and where necessary, formal land acquisition process; and iii) Ensure that the Financial Year 2026/2027 GKMA-UDP allocation of Shs 196.9 billion is fully utilised and that KCCA meets the minimum conditions and performance benchmarks required to access Metropolitan Development Grants under the Programme-for-Results framework. The Chronic Underfunding of Road and Drainage Maintenance Under KCCA Under that, Madam Speaker, the committee, therefore, recommended and urges Government to: i) Increase the Uganda Road Fund allocation to KCCA to a minimum of Shs 55 billion in Financial Year 2026/2027, in line with the stated maintenance requirements and index future allocations to the road network length and conditions data; ii) Ring-fence the Uganda Road Fund allocation strictly for maintenance activities and ensure that is released in quarter one to allow timely procurement of materials and commencement of maintenance works; and iii) The committee in that respect recommended that KCCA provide a comprehensive road condition survey of all 2,104 km of the Kampala road network with a costed multi-year maintenance plan to Parliament by December 2026. Critical Drainage Infrastructure Deficit and Flood Risk The committee recommended and urged Government to: i) Appropriate a dedicated drainage improvement allocation of at least Shs 50 billion in the Financial Year 2026/2027 for the immediate construction of the already designed 18.9 km of community drainage channels and the most critical box culverts; ii) To fast-track the completion of the Lubigi drainage channel (980 meters remaining) as a priority flood mitigation intervention; and iii) Develop and present to Parliament a comprehensive Kampala drainage master plan with a costed five-year phase investment program by December 2026. Non-Release of Arrears and Budget under the KCCA The committee recommends and urges the Government to: i) Appropriate and release a minimum of Shs 39.5 billion for arrears clearance in the Financial Year 2026/2027; and ii) Cease the practice of budgeting for arrears without any intention of release, as this distorts the fiscal position. Grossly inadequate street lighting and infrastructure The committee recommends and urges the Government to: i) Increase the street lighting allocation progressively, targeting full coverage of all arterial and collector roads within three financial years; ii) Enforce penalties for vandalism of public infrastructure, including street lights, to deter destruction of Government property; and

Do you know why I am asking about how much has been allocated? This is because even after that allocation, we do not find the roads being worked on. What did you say about the Kampala-Jinja Expressway? As you look for that, we also need to synchronise the issue of the regional mechanical workshops. You find a district like Bundibugyo with a regional workshop in Fort Portal – It is in Mbarara, not even Fort Portal. You find the one servicing Soroti in Bugembe. We are wondering what happened to the – because Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) used to be very organised. They had regional offices. What happened to those offices? What happened to the equipment that they had? Where are the regional labs? Before we start talking about the roads and whatever, how do we test the materials? Where are those labs or the regional mechanical workshops? Then, what happened to the UNRA roads? Honourable chairperson, you may need to enlighten us on that because we are giving you a lot of money. Now, the fact that you have a lot of money, tell us which roads you are going to give us – when we are doing appropriation – which roads are we working on? I told you about the road leading to Buhweju. You cannot even think of passing there. There is the road from Lira-Otuke-Abim up to Karenga; it is very bad. When you look at Kachonga-Butaleja-Tororo- Namutumba road, it is terrible. Look at where Hon. Joan comes from, Madi-Okollo. That road of Madi-Okollo connecting to Arua - I can tell you all the roads now. Let us look at the critical roads and make sure that we use the money effectively. With all this money that is being given, we must achieve what we need to achieve. You find the roads in Kampala – like my road, somebody is working on McKinnon Road, but I have failed to pass there for a whole two weeks. Nothing is moving. I was wondering why they removed my little tarmac which was there; they should have left it the way it was. Therefore, honourable chairperson, there is a big problem in your sector.

Madam Speaker, you are spot on. This particular road project – Katine-Ochero Road – has been riddled with corruption. Last year, twice, that road was supposed to be awarded to a contractor, and they said there was a whistleblower who came up. That issue was investigated but we never saw the report. Around December last year, the same thing happened. Around March this year, the same thing happened. I would have loved to hear what that report is, and the dates for the contractor to be given the road. Secondly, on the issue of ferries, we informed the process in the beginning that Kaberamaido has the largest number of people who would use that ferry to come to Busoga and Kampala. The information available then suggested that the place where the workers should be staying would be in a place called Akampala, where the ferry docks, in Kaberamaido. However, up to now, there is no housing there. Instead, the housing was placed in Buyende, where the ferry starts from. Recently, the minister acknowledged and accepted that they would construct new buildings on that side. I would have expected to see that in the budget for the next year. As I speak, the ministry has started renting houses for workers to stay on the side of Kaberamaido, which is a better step, but we would have loved to see, in the budget, figures showing that construction will take place on the other side, to enhance the usage of the ferry. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Yesterday, I passed on the road from Nakaseke to Ngoma. I do not know which construction company was awarded the contract to work on it, but the works are not moving. Even the works on Kampala-Fort Portal Road are not moving. On Hoima Road, nothing is moving. What could be happening? No, the releases were done.

Madam Speaker, we had the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, here. He made a presentation listing all the roads that needed to be done. If I recall, the money that we owe to contractors was more than Shs 5 trillion. The committee’s report says only Shs 2 trillion has been allocated in the budget, but we owe more than Shs 5 trillion to contractors, which is why they have abandoned sites. The procedural issue I am raising is for you, Madam Speaker, to guide whether part of the problem does not start in this Parliament because a tarmac road cannot just be given. There must be a justification and return on investment. If you read reports of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, the return on public investment in Uganda is 0.08, while the world average is 6 per cent. You cannot come and throw a road at each and every one, including those who are going to use it for grazing. Eight per cent of the vehicles in Uganda are in Kampala and metropolitan -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Is it in order for Hon. Ssemujju, who knows very well that he is not the only one bringing economic activity to this Kampala, to stand here and say we from the village do not deserve to have tarmac roads? Madam Speaker, we, from the village also bring economic activity here. Is he in order?

Honourable members, there is no place that does not bring economic activity. No district is unimportant. This is why you have all these representatives here. We will not start belittling other districts. In my district, I do not have tarmac, but I have economic activity. I have all the investments in that district but you cannot say places without return on investment should not bring - what return on investment are you looking at? We are saying the Government should provide us with roads, whether tarmac or not, but good roads. People are dying in accidents because of these roads. You cannot say you only need roads in Kampala or Kira because you have economic activity. So what? Do you mean villages like Napak should not have roads? Honourable members, pursuant to Rule 156(2) of the Rules of Procedure, I refer this report to the Committee on Budget for harmonisation, reconciliation and consolidation. We are going to have a debate on infrastructure and have it on the Order Paper on Tuesday. Thank you. Next.

18639 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 to the Uganda Human Rights Commission to facilitate training of newly elected district local council leaders on the human rights-based approach. Upgrading of Moyo field office to regional office The commission intends to upgrade the Moyo field office to a regional office in order to enhance delivery of human rights services within the Northwest Nile region. The committee recommends that Shs 500 million be provided to the development budget of the Uganda Human Rights Commission for this financial year to upgrade this field office to a regional office. Law Development Centre Completion of construction of old LDC multi- storied building of Shs 64.7 billion Due to limitation of physical facilities, especially firms, rooms for training students, the Law Development Centre embarked on the construction of a multi-storied building to reduce the ratio of students to classroom space. The building will house 20 firm rooms. Currently, phase II has been completed. However, with the current development ceiling, LDC is not able to embark on phase III due to insufficient funds. Completion of the building has been delayed due to inadequate funding. LDC therefore, requires Shs 22.147 billion to resume and sustain project activities, safeguard previous investments, and ensure the timely delivery of the required infrastructure as per the development commitment approved schedule to support legal education and training in Uganda. The committee recommends that the Government provides Shs 22.147 billion during this financial year to enable the Law Development Centre resume and sustain project activities as highlighted above. Procurement of transport equipment The committee was informed that the current fleet age profile indicates that nearly half of LDC’s vehicles have exceeded their optimal operational lifespan and are due for disposal, emphasising the need for a phased replacement strategy to maintain effective service delivery. This situation has significantly constrained the implementation of upcountry activities, particularly the transportation of teaching staff from Kampala campus to regional campuses, as well as the facilitation of legal aid services, including the movement of staff to courts, prisons, and remand homes across regional and satellite clinics. This requires Shs 0.8 billion. The committee recommends the availability of these funds to enable the LDC to procure the vehicles. Acquisition of ICT Equipment LDC plans to acquire networking equipment, servers, enterprise storage equipment, data centre power bank solutions, firm room interactive displays, modern computers and printers, biometric solutions, VOIP solutions, CCTV systems, among others. This requires Shs 4.75 billion. The committee recommends that this money be provided. Vote 148: Judicial Service Commission The committee observed that the current budget structure for the Judicial Service Commission is heavily skewed towards general administration and support services, which are largely fixed or semi-fixed costs. They include things like rent, retainers, and so on. While these are necessary for institutional functioning, they do not directly generate justice sector outcomes such as complaint resolution, disciplinary action, or improved recruitment quality. The Commission noted that whereas the Constitution confers a wide mandate, it fully appreciates that the resource envelope cannot support total focus on all the responsibilities envisaged by the Constitution. It is thus guided by the fact that limited resources demand that it prioritises aspects of its mandate which no

Thank you. Madam Speaker, on the project on Industrial Parks Electrification Phase II, the intended project is to construct substations and power lines to supply power to industrial parks. This will include the Sukulu Hills in Tororo, Mbale Industrial Park, Kapeeka Park in Nakaseke, the Wobulenzi Park in Luwero, and Nakasongola-Kaweweta Defense Industrial Park, amongst others. Under the Kampala Metropolitan Transmission System Improvement Project, we intend to have an upgrade of the Kawaala, Mutundwe, Mukono, and Buloba-related infrastructure. Madam Speaker, the planned area of benefit is Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono environs. Madam Speaker, there is the ORIO Mini Hydro and Rural Electrification Project. The ministry intends to undertake construction of the mini hydro infrastructure, 288-kilometre distribution network, and 71,081 last-mile connections, particularly intended for areas in Hoima, Nchweera, Igassa, and Nsongya. Forgive my pronunciation due to cultural challenges. On the Kiba Hydropower Project, the ministry is undertaking a feasibility study, the environmental sustainability impact assessment, and access works and stakeholder engagement for this mini project, which is intended to be constructed in Nwoya and Kiryandongo districts. The Oriang Hydropower Project is still the same, and it is intended to be located in Nwoya and Oyam districts. On the Ayago Hydropower Project, preparatory studies are to be undertaken, as well as stakeholder management activities. The same is in Nwoya and Kiryandongo areas. Under the Buyende Nuclear Power Plant site evaluation is going to be undertaken, including meteorological tower installation, seismic and groundwater monitoring, and a resettlement action plan finalisation. This project will be located in Buyanja Subcounty in Buyende District. Madam Speaker, on the geothermal development, there is an intention to undertake deep exploration and drilling, as well as undertake surface studies. This project will be in Kibiro in Hoima, in Panyimur in Pakwach, in Okidi in Amuru, Karungu in Rubanda, Ihimbo in Rukungiri, and Kabuga in Kasese. The electricity access scale-up project

18649 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 This project intends to ensure the connection of 1,073,500 new connections of people to the electricity grid. The distribution is as follows: Central Region, 497,106; Eastern Region, 216,616; Northern, 140,337; and Western Uganda, 219,441 new connections, all amounting to 1,073,500 new connections. Under the mineral exploration and beneficiation projects, there is exploration and support for the mineral value chains. This is to improve the value of the minerals that are being obtained by the various artisanal as well as developed miners. This is planned for in Ssembabule, Buhweju, Iganga, Luweero, Kyenjojo, Ntungamo, Kazo, Kiboga, Kassanda, Mubende, Nakasongola, Mityana, and Nakaseke districts. On the Kilembe redevelopment and mineral value addition, the Government intends to support mining, processing, and mineral value addition under the Kilembe project. This will be located in Kilembe, which is in Kasese. There will also be Busia, Mbarara, Iganga, Jinja, Tororo, Rubanda, Kampala, and other mineral processing points in the country. Observations on Vote 017 The committee welcomes -

Hon. Herbert Ariko, some interruptions - I have my guests who may wish to leave. In the public gallery, I introduce the teachers and pupils from Mardith Junior School, which is in Nakawa Division, Kampala. You are most welcome. Thank you very much for coming. They are here to observe the proceedings. Those are the future leaders of this country. Also in the public gallery, we have students and teachers of Dalton Secondary School from Bbaale County, Kayunga District. They are represented by Hon. Charles Tebandeke and Hon. Idah Nantaba. You are most welcome. The school from Nakawa is represented by the Lord Mayor-elect, Hon. Ronald Balimwezo, and Hon. Betty Naluyima. Thank you very much. You are most welcome. Join me in welcoming them.

18653 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 and development partners, namely SCAP 100, Kampala Water-Lake Victoria and Sanitation Project, the Southwestern Cluster, the Integrated Water Management and Development Project, and the Wakiso West Water Sanitation Project. The National Water and Sewerage Corporation funding gap in the Financial Year 26/27 is provided for under Table 19. In particular, you note that there is a funding gap of Shs 62 billion for SCAP 100, 45 in the seven towns water project between Karuma and Gulu. As you might know, a multi-million thirty million cubic water supply project was set up at Karuma to supply Oyam, Gulu, and the neighbouring districts of Northern Uganda. Therefore, this money is necessary for the distribution of this water. There is need to undertake urgent but critical water projects in Nakawuka, in Kakumiro, and in Bukedea, which remains one of the only districts in Teso currently not covered sufficiently by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation. These provide us with a requirement of about Shs 50 billion, to be specific. Madam Speaker, the committee remains deeply concerned about the continued accumulation of the government water arrears owed to National Water and Sewerage Corporation because this undermines the corporation’s cash flow, weakens its creditworthiness, and constrains its capacity to sustain service delivery and finance new infrastructure investments. The updated arrears information submitted to the committee shows that as at the end of March 2026, the outstanding arrears stood at approximately Shs 75.37 billion. The committee notes that a significant portion of the verified water areas owed by the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to National Water was accumulated over two Financial years and amounted to Shs 24.42 billion as of February 2025. Madam Speaker, you might note that with your leadership and with the work of this Parliament, the Government provided money to clear the outstanding arrears that were owed to National Water by the MDAs. I wish to note here that the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, in particular, and the Uganda Police Force -

18671 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 iv) The Government should provide an additional Shs 3.82 billion to the Department of Community Services for social reintegration, stakeholder engagements, monitoring, and district service committee operations and National Community Service Committee operations. Trafficking in Persons (TIP) system We recommend a provision of Shs 5.521 billion in the Financial Year 2026/2027 to upgrade the TIP database into an online system to facilitate migrant workers’ safety. Recruitment systems We recommend that Shs 1.2 billion be provided in the Financial Year 2026/2027 budget to develop and automate the recruitment system for the Uganda Police authority and Uganda Prisons authority. On the implementation of the Explosives Act, 2023, which this honourable House passed, we recommend the provision of additional Shs 13.39 billion to regulate commercial explosives during the Financial Year 2026/2027. The Amnesty Commission We recommend an addition of Shs 2.341 billion during the Financial Year 2026/2027 for demobilising, reinserting, rehabilitating and reintegrating reporters and victims. Gender Compliance We scored them at 70 per cent, they are good to go. Vote 120: National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) Budget Performance for the first half of the Financial Year 2025/26 is annexed. 1. The committee recommends that NCIC expedite the recruitment process of staff to improve wage bill absorption; and 2. The committee recommends further that the DCIC align its procurement plans with contract schedules and cash flow projections to improve timely resource utilisation. Major audit findings as per the Auditor- General’s report, which is a function of Parliament, Financial Year 2024/2025 The committee recommends as follows: i) NCIC should adhere to the Government commitments control system, annual work plans, and e-government procurement system as measures to prevent the accumulation of arrears; ii) NCIC should develop an annual M&E framework to monitor and evaluate budget execution; and iii) Government should provide adequate financing to enable NCIC to operate and automate border posts with a seamless data-sharing platform with all relevant institutions. Budget estimates for Financial Year 2026/27 Overall budget Custody Centre for Kampala Metropolitan The committee recommends a provision of Shs 0.8 billion in the Financial Year 2026/27 to NCIC to procure land within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area to construct a custody centre. Post-entry management of immigrants The committee recommends an additional provision of Shs 6.471 billion to undertake countrywide inspections and investigations, prosecutions, removal of immigrants and managing custody centres.

18706 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 AFCON facilities. Recommendation The committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development provides an additional Shs 1 billion for the hire of five specialised technical human performance consultants for Uganda Cranes players; Shs 2 billion for hosting the Four Nations Tournament at least one month before AFCON 2027 kick-off, and Shs 9.1 billion for equipping and personnel for maintenance of completed AFCON facilities. On funding the national team preparation for the major critical internal championship of Olympic and Paralympic games, and all African games for Islamic solidarity, we recommend that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development provides an additional Shs 4.2 billion for national team preparation for major critical international championships and tournaments. Other critical activities Madam Speaker, the committee recommends as follows: i) Shs 1 billion for the National Anti-Doping Organisation to fully implement its mandate; ii) Shs 6 billion to establish the national rewards and recognition scheme; iii) Another one is Shs 8 billion for the operationalisation of the Teryet National High Altitude Training Centre in Sebei; iv) Next is Shs 5 billion for the redevelopment of the Uganda Golf Course, Kitante; v) The other one is Shs 5 billion for hosting the World Challenger Series of Rugby in 2027; and vi) Then Shs 30 billion towards the rehabilitation of regional stadia, as guided by the National Council for Sports and necessary for funding for each stadium. The Education Service Commission The committee recommends that the Finance Ministry provides Shs 7 billion to facilitate the initial phase of the construction of the ESC office block to address the shortage of office space and storage, and an additional Shs 0.4 billion to undertake evidence-based research to support the commission’s mandate. That the Finance Ministry should also provide the ministry with the wage to support recruitment of personnel to fill current staffing gaps in schools, to promote assistant education officers who have acquired graduate qualifications. Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) There are several narrations about the removal of asbestos and all that, and lighting, as well as the Philip Omondi Stadium. The committee recommends that the ministry of Finance – i) Allocates an additional Shs 12.0 billion to purchase land for the construction of city schools in KCCA; ii) Allocates Shs 1.05 billion to cater for the refurbishment and removal of asbestos in three schools, that is Mengo Primary School, Katwe Martyrs Primary School, and City High School; iii) Allocates Shs 1.6 billion to install lightning arresters in 79 UPE and 22 Government- aided secondary schools; iv) Allocates Shs 3.0 billion to construct 264 toilet facilities in Government-aided primary schools; and v) Allocates Shs 39 billion in a phased manner to complete the construction of Phillip Omondi Stadium. Honourable members, the Phillip Omondi Stadium, I think all members here consume the services of that stadium. So, let us hope you are with us because they are really in need of Shs 39 billion.

18708 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 Flats, and Shs 7.55 billion towards outsourcing cleaning and security guard services. Kyambogo University On Kyambogo University, the committee recommends that the Uganda Land Commission and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development undertake a comprehensive land audit to resolve overlapping tenure conflicts. Two, the committee also urges the finance ministry to allocate Shs 28.58 billion in a phased manner for the recruitment of academic staff in the medium term to bring the staffing level to at least 50 percent. Gulu University The committee recommends that the finance ministry allocates an additional Shs 2.902 billion to cover shortfalls arising from salary harmonisation, Shs 18.643 billion in the mid-term to increase the university’s staffing level to at least 50 per cent. Secondly, that the finance ministry allocates Shs 28.41 billion for the completion of the construction of Gulu Constituent College in Moroto, and Shs 12.815 billion to complete the construction of the Business and Development Centre. Muni University For Muni University, Madam Speaker, we recommend that the Finance Ministry allocates Shs 14.698 billion towards the completion of the various construction projects which have stalled at the university, and Shs 15.302 billion towards kick-starting the construction of the teaching hospital. Mbarara University of Science and Technology The committee recommends that the Finance Ministry allocates an additional Shs 35.43 billion towards the recruitment of staff in the medium term to increase the staffing level to at least 50 per cent. Shs 0.491 for salary scale harmonisation for non-teaching staff. The Finance Ministry is also urged to additionally give Shs 2.8 billion towards retooling of labs and workshops, with specialised machinery and equipment for teaching, research, and innovation. Soroti University The committee recommends that the Finance Ministry allocates Shs 5 billion for the procurement of the necessary equipment and machinery for instruction of the three new engineering courses. Lira University The committee recommends as follows: i) That the Finance Ministry provides Shs 5.0 billion to promote additional critical staff, and Shs 1 billion to cover shortfalls; and ii) Shs 1 billion to cover shortfalls within the welfare facilities and NSSF; and Shs 1.5 billion for the research and innovation fund. Vote 307: Kabale University The committee recommends that an additional Shs 3 billion be allocated to the university to support its research agenda for Financial Year 2026/2027. Vote 305: Busitema University The committee recommends that the ministry for finance provides an additional funding of Shs 14.862 billion to increase on its staffing levels from 10 per cent to at least 50 per cent. Shs 5.23 billion for strengthening labs and ICT to provide in the provision of its services in IT. Vote 312: Uganda Management Institute (UMI) The committee recommends that finance allocates an additional Shs 15.2 billion for the construction of a new purpose building at Kampala branch, new classroom office at Mbale branch, and new classroom office block at Mbarara branch.

18710 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 Vote 001: Office of the President Recurrent expenditure - Shs 368,225,930,000. Development expenditure - Shs 20,124,000,000. Vote 002: State House Budget item Recurrent expenditure - Shs 453,463,715,000. Development expenditure - Shs 27,772,000,000. Vote 003: Office of the Prime Minister Budget item Recurrent expenditure - Shs 248,940,000,000. Development expenditure - Shs 167,960,000,000. Vote 023: Ministry of KCCA and MA Budget item Recurrent expenditure - Shs 10,457,000,000. Development expenditure - Shs 313,265,000,000. Vote 107: Uganda AIDS Commission Recurrent expenditure, Shs 25,936,453,000. Development expenditure - Shs 557,000,000. Vote 110: Uganda Industrial Research Institute Recurrent expenditure - Shs 22,506,660,000. Development expenditure - Shs 2,893,060,000. Vote 112: Ethics and Integrity Recurrent expenditure – Shs 15,659,957,000. Development expenditure – Shs 64,770,000. Vote 122: Kampala Capital City Authority Recurrent expenditure – Shs 331,950,000,000. Development expenditure - Shs 517,391,000,000. Vote 158: Internal Security Organisation Recurrent expenditure – Shs 297,897,000,000. Development expenditure – Shs 55,241,000,000 Vote 159: External Security Organisation Recurrent expenditure – Shs 126,612,000,000. Development expenditure - Shs 15,702,000,000. Vote 167: Science, Technology and Innovation Recurrent expenditure – She 519,334,000,000. Development expenditure – Shs 76,998,000,000.

18546 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 Wednesday, 15 April 2026 1. This week, we will receive reports from the sectoral committees on the ministerial policy statements for Financial Year 2026/2027, and that is pursuant to Rule 156 of the Rules of Procedure. 2. Next week, from the 21 st to the 24 th of April, we will consider the Tax and Revenue Bills, pursuant to Rule 157 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, and 3. We will, from the 28 th to the 30 th , do the appropriation, which will take us to the end, pursuant to Rule 158 and Rule 159 of the Rules of Procedure. As I said before, we decided to bring the appropriation earlier, this being a transition period. By May, members will be swearing in, and we will not have Parliament, yet we are supposed to pass the budget for the next Parliament. Honourable members, I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary-General of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), dated 16 March 2026, appointing Hon. Adeke Ann Ebaju, the Woman Member of Parliament for Soroti District, as a party whip. She replaces Hon. Yusuf Nsibambi. Congratulations, Hon. Adeke, and congratulations, Hon. Nsibambi, for joining the mighty party - he is not confused. Hon. Nsibambi is a very brilliant young man. I want to thank him for joining that side. Congratulations! Honourable members, I wish you fruitful deliberations. Yes, Hon. Ssekikubo, you are back! Welcome back. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 6 TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Annet Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, we have seen that the country is experiencing a shock. From Masaka all the way to Kampala, road users and motor vehicle owners who use Total petrol stations cannot get petrol there. For some of the Members who use diesel, the prices have skyrocketed because before, out of Shs 100,000, one could get 20 litres, but you can now get only 18.5 litres. I do not see a solution in the near future. We know that Uganda uses 240 million barrels of fuel per month. [The Speaker] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18560 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 viii) Shs 6.44 billion has been committed to ICT infrastructure deployment and improvement across airports, hotels, stadia, training facilities, and hospitals that will support AFCON 2027; ix) Shs 91.5 billion has been set aside for the upgrade of Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Masindi General Hospital, and Buseruka Health Centre III to a required standard for intensive care, accident, and emergency response as stipulated by CAF; x) Shs 13.75 billion has been allocated to Hoima City, Masindi Municipality, and Kira Municipality to strengthen sanitation and environmental hygiene services during the tournament; xi) The government has also provided Shs 3.39 billion for the upgrade of the meteorological services; xii) Shs 6.2 billion has been identified for water supply infrastructure in Hoima City; xiii) Shs 23.33 billion is being allocated for the upgrade and maintenance of the railway at the central terminal, Kampala- Mukono line – Namanve and Namboole halt; xiv) Shs 4.6 billion has been dedicated to the construction of electricity lines to AFCON support facilities, including Hoima City Stadium and Kabaale International Airport; xv) Shs 37.85 billion has been committed for the destination marketing and promotion of Uganda under the AFCON 2027 brand; xvi) The Government has further committed to waive visa fees for all visitors to Uganda for a period of at least three months beginning one month before kick-off and ending one month after the final match; and xvii) Relatedly, the Government is pursuing a special-purpose joint Pamoja visa with Kenya and Tanzania to facilitate movement for fans and guests during the tournament. Madam Speaker and honourable members, the above-mentioned interventions will be implemented directly by the responsible government ministries, departments, and agencies. The Ministry of Education and Sports and the local organising committee will play a supervisory role to ensure the timely implementation of activities by the MDAs and conformity to the CAF standard. Honourable colleagues, our most significant challenge has been the area of sports infrastructure. I would like to assure the House that, following the Government’s commitments and decisive interventions, this matter has been addressed. The update regarding the development of sports infrastructure, in preparation for the tournament, is as follows: 1. Hoima City Stadium Works for the construction of Hoima City Stadium have been completed, and the defect liability period will expire in December 2026. During this period, the contractor will undertake remedial works to address the comments made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after the recent inspection. 2. Mandela National Stadium The Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, for the design and build for works for the expansion of Mandela National Stadium under phase two, was signed on 26 February 2026. Under this phase, we expect, among others, the following: (a) Upgrading the seating capacity from 38,268 to 45,000 seater;

Madam Speaker, it is true we are coordinating as Chair of the Inter- Ministerial Committee on AFCON 2027. To begin with, the road between Kampala and Hoima, I want to confirm - We discussed this road because it was within the CAF report when they came and visited us. They identified it and we notified the Ministry of Works and Transport. I last passed that road last evening at around midnight. There are works going on, and I want to pledge that we will continue to monitor and inform the House, working closely with the Minister of Works and Transport, to ensure that the road is completed on time. Regarding the road of Corner Yeri-Iceme-Bobi, I wish to state that during the retreat, a question was raised, and I informed the retreat. I want to inform the House that His Excellency the President directed that the road be fast-tracked. I want to confirm that there were meetings between us, the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development with the President regarding the financing of that road. If you heard the answer I gave, I want to repeat that this matter is before the President, and he directed his Principal Private Secretary to ensure that he signs that letter, which allows us, as the Government, to do the work. The question that will come is, “Will they be able to do the work?” The contractor who was identified has pledged that once this is done, they are ready to commit and begin work on the roads on time. The same applies to the Gulu Airport. I led a team, under the directive of the President, to visit the airport with the contractor. The contractor has committed to ensuring that the work that is required is done. But remember, I am talking about a backup. In terms of the sporting area, friends, the training facility for Gulu University, Pece Stadium in Gulu, Lira University, and Akii-Bua Stadium, which has two training facilities, will be ready as far as we are concerned. I already have money under the current budget to ensure that those stadiums are worked on. I have already finalised the Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, who is the contractor for the training facilities. I will soon invite my colleagues for the commissioning of the ground-breaking of the training facilities in Gulu and Lira. I symbolically did so for all of those facilities here in Makerere University. I want to say we are good to go in that line too. Thank you.

Madam Speaker, I thank you for correctly answering my colleague, but I would also like to say the following. I invited CAF to come and carry out an inspection on our readiness. Why? The Confederation of African Football is the owner of the tournament, and because of that, they are the ones who set the standards. For that matter, when they came and inspected the facilities, they gave a report. I would like to confirm that it is that report which prompted my minister to constitute an Inter-Ministerial Committee, because if you look at what I have read here, it is on different Ministries, Departments, and Agencies outside the Ministry of Education and Sports. When she constituted the Inter-Ministerial Committee - whatever observations you have seen where the Government allocates money is within the findings of CAF. For instance, the Hoima Airport was meant to be an airport specifically for cargo, but now that we put up a stadium there, there was need for the Government to put up a passenger terminal at the airport. This is within the CAF report. Let us talk about health. CAF inspected Hoima Regional Referral Hospital and Masindi General Hospital, and picked certain provisions within those hospitals. It is through this that we sat with the Ministry of Health, in line with the guidance from the CAF report, that the following must be undertaken. That is how we allocated that money. If you talk about roads, the state of the road between Kampala to Hoima was one of the observations, which was within the CAF report and that is what made us follow up on that intervention. Regarding the roads within Hoima Stadium, they asked how we are going to decongest traffic because we are going to have 20,000 people in the stadium entering and exiting. How will they get out? That is what made us allocate that money. We gave a contractor the mandate to build the stadium, which it did. After that, CAF carried out an inspection of the stadium. Within our contract, it was very clear that we can only take that stadium if it fully meets the CAF Class Certification. CAF identified some of the areas in the stadium, which did not meet this classification. The contractor, as per the contract, is now meant to ensure that all those issues, that were identified, are corrected. The Government of Uganda is not going to spend even a dollar. Like the Speaker has said, the stadium is still within a defect liability period, within which they must make sure that work is done. CAF is coming back in August to check on whether we have done what they had identified in their report. Honourable colleagues, the Government has taken this competition as a priority for next financial year’s budget. (Applause) No wonder, you have heard the President insist that this is a project that takes priority for implementation. We are committed; we cannot get out of it. The issues identified in the CAF report are exactly what we are addressing, as the Government. Thank you, honourable colleagues.

18575 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 15 APRIL 2026 people with a medical background and other specialties working for them, or will they just rely on people from NDA on that point so that we do not have double recruitment? We can borrow the speciality from NDA but have some permanent medical staff also in UNBS. On the issue of industrial parks, we have noticed that investment, at the moment, is not widely spread across the country. You find most of the investment along the Kampala- Jinja Road and now stretching up to the Mbale corridor, leaving the rest of the country untapped properly. For example, an area like the West Nile has a population of almost 4.5 million people without any industrial park. We did have an industrial park in Nebbi that is in -

Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, we are talking today, but with pain. It is not about politics. It is not about us, the MPs, but about that little young girl who has just started a business. Madam Speaker, in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, we have been affected, as we mobilised our communities to give land to ensure that the roads are well expanded and well catered for. These are people who have given land, but not at any one time – in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, show me any market that the Government has built, and which you are in position to say is empty - (Interjections)- Let me make it clear. Show me a market where these people are supposed to be. We are talking about it –

Okay, leave alone the markets being built. Do we have gazetted market areas in Kampala?

Thank you so much. Madam Speaker, before I say a word, from the bottom of my heart, I want to pass to you my condolences. We got mixed up when we learnt about the death of your dear mother-in-law because there was a previous one. When I tried to ask my brother, Hon. Ojara Mapenduzi, he did not give me a better answer, but later I learned that you lost your mother-in-law. Now, the information to my dear sister is that when I am in Kampala, I live in your constituency. When you talk about Katabi, I live in the Entebbe area. Yes, the markets are not built. However, if you go to Katabi, there is a designated area. If you come to the Nkumba area, there is a market, Abayita Ababiri, although it is not built. If you come to Kawuku, there is a designated area. Honestly, at times, you fail to drive. If you knock down somebody, you would have already killed. You would have poured people’s goods down. For once, in this House, let us create sanity. If you want to enter Arua Regional Referral Hospital, up to where you are supposed to park your car or put your feet, you cannot pass. If we are going to say we should give them ample time, I find it ironic because you find clerks talking to people to go to the market, but they do not want to go. What means shall we use? Minimum force is necessary in every difficult situation. I am here to say that we need to fill the markets. We need to sell in the market. Madam Speaker, I also want to talk about the Parish Development Model (PDM) – the parish chiefs. One, I beg that we include Terego on the list of districts that need more money. Terego is the last created district and our parishes are at the level of those that existed during colonial times. I have parishes which have up to 19, 20 and 23 villages. My parishes are bigger than most of the subcounties in this country. For physical planning, we give money every time. I beg that we do this in a phased, comprehensive manner, not in a substandard one. This is when we put into context that Uganda is expanding every other day. I beg that this be taken into consideration.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I moved a motion under Rule 66 for adjournment to discuss the ongoing violent IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 5TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. The Government Chief Whip communicated to the Minister of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs. I did follow it up myself. The minister is currently unavailable, but once we get the report, we will put it on the Order Paper. The reason you see us varying the Order Paper is that this one has just come. Therefore, even if it came now, we would vary the Order Paper and have it discussed. We are pushing for it. Honourable member from Buhweju?

Honourable members, in the Public Gallery this afternoon, we have students and teachers from Namungoona Parents Secondary School. They are represented by Hon. Kawalya Abubaker of Rubaga North constituency, and Hon. Shamimof Kampala. They are here to witness the proceedings. (Applause) Also, in the Public Gallery this afternoon, we have a group of leaders from the Uganda Sugarcane Growers Alliance. Where are you? Please join me in welcoming them. They are here to witness the proceedings. They are 36 in number. (Applause)

18520 THE FORENSIC AND SCIENTIFIC ANALYTICAL SERVICES BILL, 2025 Madam Speaker, I beg your indulgence, in three minutes, to summarise what I have laid. The Budget that I have just laid has been prepared under the theme, “Full Monetisation of Uganda’s Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialisation, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access.” The projected total draft annual Budget for the Financial Year 2026/2027 is Shs 84,294,163,572,986 only. The Budget has been prepared in line with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), the 10-fold growth strategy, and it will be the first budget to implement the next National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto for the period 2026/2027 to 2030/2031. The budget has, accordingly, prioritised investment in agro-industrialisation, tourism development, mineral-based industrial development, and science, technology, and innovations, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the creative arts industry and the enablers (ATMS). Madam Speaker, under the ATMS, we have categorised the following in summary: Under agro-industrialisation, our focus is on agricultural research, inputs, irrigation, extension, value addition, post-harvest management, storage and enforcing quality standards for market access. On tourism development, we are aiming at promoting Uganda through branding, infrastructure upgrades, sanitation facilities, hospitality standards enforcement and investment in specialised facilities, including health tourism. On mineral-based development, our priorities are quantification, strengthening the Uganda National Mining Company, transparent markets, and projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline. On science, technology and innovations (STI), we propose to increase financing to support the commercialisation of STI products like the Kiira Motors Corporation, Dei BioPharma Ltd, coffee and banana; establishing a high-tech city, increasing research and development, affordable and reliable internet, digital government services and e-commerce, the promotion of business processing outsourcing, enforcing of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act to protect intellectual property and artistic works. Madam Speaker, the enablers of these ATMS include: i) Peace, security, and rule of law; ii) Transport infrastructure, including roads, rail, air, and water transport; iii) Electricity; iv) Industrial-park development; and v) Human capital development – here we talk about education, health, water irrigation, environment, and wealth creation funds; that is, Parish Development Model, Uganda Development Bank (UDB), Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), and Emyooga . The key expenditure drivers for the Financial Year 2026/2027 Annual Budget include increased investment in key NDP IV flagship projects such as the standard gauge railway, the meter gauge railway, the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, the construction and maintenance of critical roads, and electricity for industrial parks, among others. The budget has also provided resources to support readiness activities for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 and enhancement of salaries for primary school teachers and Arts teachers in secondary schools and Business, Technical, Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) institutions. Madam Speaker, we have also proposed the tax policy measures amounting to Shs 1,741 billion to finance the budget. [Mr Musasizi] LAYING OF PAPERS

Owino, Kiteezi, which is part of Kampala. Yes, there was a time we had [Mr Ssemujju] LAYING OF PAPERS

18408 THE NATIONAL DRUG AND HEALTH PRODUCTS AUTHORITY BILL, 2025 Thursday, 26 March 2026 the members of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), the Clerk has already published a notice in the Gazette, appointing the dates for the nomination of candidates and the by-elections of the members of EALA. The same notice was published in the New Vision on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. The nomination dates for candidates for the by- election will be on 30 and 31 March 2026, and that will be from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Government Chief Whip, we expect to receive your list before that day. The nomination will be in the Parliamentary building, in the Conference Hall. Pursuant to Rule 8 of Appendix C of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, which requires us to have a vetting committee to verify these intending members of the Assembly, I propose the names that will do the vetting: I have Hon. Herbert Ariko, Hon. Gyaviira Ssemwanga, Hon. Mapenduzi Ojara, Hon. Lucy Akello, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, Hon. Abdu Katuntu, Hon. Irene Linda, Hon. Anna Adeke Ebaju, Hon. Sarah Najjuma, Hon. Susan Abeja, Hon. Julius Acon Bua, Hon. Lillian Paparu Obiale, Dr Charles Ayume, Hon. Emely Kugonza, Hon. Asinansi Nyakato, Hon. John Baptist Nambeshe, Hon. Mariam Naigaga, Hon. Fredrick Angura, Hon. Amos Kankunda, and Hon. James Kaberuka. Those are the 20 Members who we proposed for verification. Is there anybody who is not comfortable with any name? IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 4TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.05 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Again, Madam Speaker, on behalf of Hon. Ronald Balimwezo, I beg to lay the alternative policy statement for Kampala Capital City Authority and the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs for the Financial Year 2026/2027. I beg to lay.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I want to join you – I have heard you ask us to follow up on a colleague. What transpired is very unfortunate. Maybe we will reach out to him to understand the happenings around that and to commiserate with him. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 3RD SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18383 THE E L E V E N TH P A R L IAMENT OF U G A N D A TUESDAY , 17 M A R CH 2026 Madam Speaker, you mentioned in your opening remarks – I was following virtually on my way here, thanks to technology – that there are statements that have been deferred. These are issues we raised, and we expected the Minister for Kampala to speak to us about floods and the Government’s commitment to compensate traders. Then, Kiteezi – the commitment by the Government to compensate those people, which has not happened yet. There was also a statement that we were expecting from the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs about the biometric voter verification kits that we spent billions of shillings on, which did not function. I did not get you clearly, Madam Speaker; is it all those statements? Are there particular ones? Just so we can know what we are to anticipate. We keep loading the Government with more work because that is their responsibility anyway. As they prepare to bring through those statements, with your indulgence, Madam Speaker, I think that the ministers for justice, internal affairs, and the Attorney-General should also help guide this House further. We make laws in this Parliament, but many times these are flouted. Article 23 of our Constitution provides for protection of personal liberty. Article 24, which was made here even before we came, prohibits cruel and inhumane treatment, but we still see the same continue to happen, Madam Speaker. The mode of arrest – what the Government calls arrest but is kidnap – continues to happen. We do not understand why these things keep happening. We will not stop talking about them, especially here, because these laws are made here, and this is the space that we have to use. Madam Speaker, last Thursday, the home of the personal assistant to Hon. Kyagulanyi Ssentamu was raided by UPDF officers. They were in uniform, and one of them identified himself with an identity card as SFC. They were looking for this gentleman; he is called Najja Sheriff but they did not find him there. I am told they were also looking for Hon. Kyagulanyi; obviously, he was not there. They picked up this gentleman’s wife, called Nattabi Fauzia. That was last Thursday. The little children were left in the home alone; their mother was taken away. Up to now, Madam Speaker, we do not know where this young lady is. This is wrong. You see, we keep telling the Government that if you are interested in anybody in this country, the law is at your expansive availability. Do summon people. However, when you go and pick up people, and you do not take them to gazetted detention facilities, it is a problem, and this cuts across. Madam Speaker, we were here when one of our colleagues, Hon. Paul Akamba, who belongs to the NRM, was equally abducted. For days, his family and lawyers did not know where he was. This is wrong. Forget that it is happening to NUP. It can happen to anybody else, as it happened to Hon. Paul Akamba. We must set these standards because the laws are passed here. If you are interested in somebody, summon them. When they fail to show up, that I cannot defend. Even as a lawyer, if somebody is summoned and they do not show up, I will not defend somebody who is picked up when they were summoned, and they did not show up. If they summon you and you fail to show up, then they will come for you somehow. However, if somebody has not been summoned at all: You go and pick them from their home, and for days nobody knows where they are, lawyers do not know where to start from, family does not know either; it is wrong. The Government must stop this behaviour. If you are interested in people, summon them properly so they can show up. I hope that the ministers for internal affairs, justice, and the Attorney-General can talk to us, as Parliament. Are these laws irrelevant? Has the Constitution been torpedoed? That means even this Parliament is irrelevant because it passes laws. Finally, Madam Speaker, this Parliament appropriated funds to the Electoral Commission

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I thank you for your communication, but there is a matter I wanted to address again to this House, through you; about fire gutting markets. Yesterday, there was another challenge in Kampala; Katwe Market was gutted by fire. We want to know what exactly is happening. Many people are constructing storeyed buildings in Kampala; do they have water hydrants? How do you deal with this challenge? When we had fire gutting schools, the Ministry of Education and Sports issued many directives on schools having fire extinguishers, and indeed, this solved some problems. However, these people continue to cry out to the Government for help, but we are not getting reliable information from the Government. Can we know what is happening in Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA)? A lot of markets are catching fire, and people are losing a lot of property and money. What can be done in the instant case? Madam Speaker, as we speak now, owners of these markets are putting their structures back in place. What can KCCA do to control fires? The best solution is to install water hydrants in several locations. We need to get a status report –

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I will definitely take this up with the ministry for Kampala and ask them to make a report to Parliament.

Madam Speaker, I did not want to come back to this issue, but now that the Attorney-General is taking note to follow up with KCCA on the matter that has been raised by Hon. Ssewungu about fires, I wanted to tether this element. We saw a demolition of part of Owino market – St Balikuddembe Market. KCCA went there – the leadership – and they said “We have arrested those who were participating in the breaking of a part of a building.” A few days later, KCCA went back and they said, “These people did not demolish in a very good way; so, let us finish the demolition.” (Laughter) They said, “Let us now raze the entire building,” and so people have been reaching out to us, saying, “Do help us.” I think the minister for Kampala needs to tie that into the report she is going to bring so that we get clarity. There is a lot of confusion.

Madam Speaker, with your permission, allow 30-second information from the Shadow Minister for Kampala and the Kampala Lord Mayor-elect.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I personally visited the site at night before the demolition. The affected people told me that the Owino market master, who represents the Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA), had warned them to vacate, saying they would be evicted. When I called the Executive Director (ED), her phone was off. I later called the Deputy Executive Director, who told me they had no arrangements to evict the vendors because they were chasing the illegal street vendors into the gazetted markets. Therefore, they had no reason whatsoever to evict people from the markets. Unfortunately, it was that very night that the demolition took place. It is sad to say that we lost two lives there. We need a thorough report from the minister. Madam Speaker, it would perhaps be better for you to constitute a committee to investigate the matter, as it is serious. I called the Executive Director, who later told me that she had given a demolition order or permit to the developer. At first, the developer was not known. Everyone was running away from that act. Madam Speaker, don’t you think that we need to constitute a committee of Parliament to investigate that matter?

18388 THE COPYRIGHT A N D N E IGHBOURING R IGHTS ( A M E N D M E N T) B ILL, 2025 The theme of the conference was “The Commonwealth; a Global Partner.” The resolutions and recommendations are included in this report. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank you for visiting our colleague, a member of the CPA Uganda Branch, at the hospital yesterday. He is also the treasurer of the CPA-Africa Region. Honourable colleagues, when you get time, please check on Hon. Enos Asiimwe at the International Hospital Kampala (IHK). There is an unfortunate incident that happened to him. For Members who have just come in, the Speaker had reported in her communication that he was attacked. We thank God that he is alive and recovering.

18330 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Thursday, 12 March 2026 The prescribed timeline is the 29 th of March, which falls on a Sunday. However, because of the transition from the 11 th Parliament to the 12 th Parliament, we must bring forward all these matters on the Floor before that time. The statutory timeline for tabling the Tax and Revenue Bills and proposed Annual Budget Estimates is the 1 st of April, as stipulated under Sections 7, 12, and 13 of the Public Finance Management Act, Cap. 171, and Rules 155 and 157 of the Rules of Procedure. The House will consider the Sectoral Committees’ reports on Ministerial Policy Statements from the 15 th to the 17 th of April. When we receive them today, they will go to the committees, and they will come back to the House from the 15 th to the 17 th of April. The Tax and Revenue Bills will be considered from the 21 st to the 23 rd of April 2026. The Annual Budget Estimates 2026/2027 and the Appropriation Bill will be from the 28 th to the 30 th of April. Honourable Members, during the consideration of the National Budget Framework Paper in January 2026, the Budget Committee tasked the Minister of Education and Sports with harmonising the Budget Proposals and re-table the sector Budget Framework Paper for Vote 166, that is, the National Council of Sports. As we consider the Ministerial Policy Statements, I will invoke Rule 26(1) to allow them to lay the harmonised Budget position for that Vote. That will form the budget process for that Vote. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 2ND SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.01 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, I know that the honourable Government Chief Whip has been engrossed with numerous issues also to do with the election. He has probably not followed up on some issues that he is supposed to, but it is okay, I can remind him. Your appointing authority held a meeting with the minister for Kampala, who is here, and the traders, and made that commitment. Ours is to follow up with those who are here. I had actually thought that the minister for Kampala would rise up and respond to that issue because

Honourable members, wait - you cannot raise a point of order because he is seated. Honourable members - just a minute. Minister of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, can you give us a report on what has been - (Hon. Minsa Kabanda rose_) -no, not now. I am not saying that you comment, I am saying that you come with the report on Tuesday. Honourable members, in the VIP gallery this afternoon, we have the Members of Parliament- elect who have come to observe the proceedings of Parliament. We have Hon. Maseruka Robert, please stand up, and Hon. Amaniyo Sheilah. You are most welcome. They have come to learn and to observe. Hon. Amero, clap for yours; Hon. Etilu Margaret, Hon. Ongorok Richard, Hon. Katusiime Adrine, Hon. Achom Esther, Hon. David Okwere, Hon. Tibyaze Peace, and Hon. Sarah Namulondo. You are most welcome, and thank you for coming. We also have, in the public gallery this afternoon, students and teachers of Mount Saint Mary’s College Namagunga. You are most welcome. Join me in welcoming them. (Applause) They are represented by Hon. Abdallah Kiwanuka and Hon. Hanifa. You are most welcome, and thank you so much for coming. In the VIP gallery, we also have a member of Parliament-elect for Nakifuma County, Hon. Kiwanuka Suleiman. Join me in welcoming these visitors. (Applause) Hon. David, do you have something to say?

Yes, Section 12(13) of the Public Finance Management Act and Rule 153(1) of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament of Uganda, I rise to lay on the Table the Ministerial Policy Statement for the Presidency for the Financial Year 2026/2027. The Presidency comprises seven votes: i. Vote 11 - the Office of the Presidency; ii. Vote 22 - State House; iii. Vote 23 - Ministry of Kampala City Council; iv. Vote 17 - Uganda AIDS Commission; v. Vote 112 - Ethics and Integrity; vi. Vote 158 - Internal Security; and vii. Vote 159 - External Security Organisation. Madam Speaker, to enable the Presidency to fulfil its constitutional mandate and contribute to the overall Government development agenda, I request that the budget for the Presidency of Shs 1.61192 trillion be approved. I beg to lay.

The ministerial policy statement stands referred to the Sectoral Committee on Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Kampala Capital City Authority

Madam Speaker, in compliance with Section 12(13) of the Public Finance Management Act, Cap. 171, I present a Ministerial Policy Statement for Vote 122, Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs for the Financial Year 2026/2027. I also present the major achievements registered during the Financial Year 2024/2025 and the half year of 2025/2026, including challenges faced in implementation; the proposed budget estimation and planned outputs for the Financial Year 2026/2027; and key priorities that have remained unfunded. Madam Speaker, addressing the funding gaps in this ministerial policy statement will go a long way in enhancing service delivery in the city and restore public trust and enhance the image of the city, especially as the country gears up to host the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). I beg to lay.

18286 MOTION Thursday, 29 January 2026 As the leadership of Parliament, we will put up efforts aimed at ensuring that, as colleagues, we remain a family, even outside here, because we have those who have been going and coming back. They lose today, the next time they win, so it is very important to remain in touch. That is why we worked out mechanisms to ensure that, at least, we give you the minimum assistance even when you are outside of this House. I hope we shall continue engaging to see which better way can be put up for this family to remain in an honourable state even outside this House, despite the challenges that might be coming up. Honourable colleagues, last year, we were unable to hold our end-of-year party because we were all running up and down; we were busy in our constituencies. As the leadership of Parliament, we decided that we should have a party for you, so that it is a combination of the end and beginning of the year. So, we shall have it tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. at the South Wing ground parking. I, therefore, invite you to attend it so that we can shed the stress that we got from the field. Colleagues, I will be amending the Order Paper to allow the laying of reports of the Auditor- General for the last financial year. There are some reports that came in today, and we feel we should work on them right away. I am also happy the finance minister is here; I know we have the statutory timelines that are clearly provided for insofar as the budgeting process is concerned. Ministerial policy IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - SPECIAL SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 2.26 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18305 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 29 JANUARY 2026 additional funding of Shs 2.1 billion and Shs 200 million for enhanced gratuity and pension payments for its staff, to avoid accumulation of arrears and delayed payments of terminal benefits for retiring officers. On Vote 501: Missions Abroad, we generally recommend that the Government should provide additional funding of Shs 1.2 billion to the mission in New Delhi and Shs 200 million to the mission in Kuala Lumpur, to facilitate the repatriation of trafficked Ugandans in their respective countries of accreditation. Missions in countries with a higher number of Ugandan migrant workers, such as in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, should each be allocated an additional Shs 500 million to enable them establish rescue shelters and provide the requisite consular support to distressed Ugandans. This funding could be availed to them every financial year, as this is a recurrent issue. Additional funding for the Consulate in Arusha The committee recommends that the mission in Dar es Salaam be allocated an additional Shs 710 million in the Financial Year 2026/2027 as a subvention. Funding for maintaining operations in the Mission in Kinshasa We pray that the Mission in Kinshasa be allocated Shs 672 million for the rent of temporary offices with adequate space to accommodate all staff in one location, since our embassy was burnt down during the riots. Committee on Gender, Labour and Social Development Vote 124: Equal Opportunities Commission On the renovation of the dilapidated Equal Opportunity Commission headquarters, the committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development provide funds of Shs 1 billion to enable the committee renovate the building at Bugolobi. This would enable the staff to relocate from the expensive rental offices at Kingdom Kampala and save money, which would be used for other critical activities. Right now, they spend up to a tune of Shs 4 billion in rent at Kingdom House. Committee on East African Community Affairs Vote 021: Ministry of East African Community Affairs They have a wage gap. The committee recommends that a wage gap of Shs 165 million be provided to the budget for the ministry. On participation in regional and international agreements, the committee noted that the Ministry of East African Community Affairs is required to participate, on a number of occasions, in different negotiations. However, it has failed to participate in key regional meetings due to lack of funding. Attending regional meetings, participation in bilateral engagements and trade negotiations is a key part of their mandate. The committee noted that the ministry requires Shs 3.6 billion, which has not been provided. Therefore, it recommends that the ministry for finance provides Shs 1.8 billion for the participation of the Ministry of East African Community Affairs officials in regional and international engagements, which are critical to our integration process. On visibility and communication of the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, the committee recommends that the ministry be provided Shs 1.2 billion to create awareness on the importance of East African Community (EAC) integration. There are recommendations on retooling. Committee on Finance, Planning and Economic Development Vote 108: National Planning Authority (NPA) There are local government development plans. The committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance reinstate NPA’s full Shs 5.4 billion

18313 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 29 JANUARY 2026 Many of the projects for which we have borrowed gross sums of money are either behind schedule or have completely stagnated. Here we are being asked to recklessly approve further borrowing. I now turn to the ministry of finance report on externally funded projects. The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has been monitoring performance of these projects and done some reports. The latest report samples 66 externally-funded projects, as the table below illustrates. We have borrowed money to finance projects. Even in this budget, they are saying we should borrow another Shs 10 trillion. But look at the table. The projects in Agro-Industrialisation; seven projects here, only two have been completed. One is on track, others behind schedule. Digital Transformation: two projects, one on track. Human Capital Development: 14 projects, only one completed, one on track, 12 are behind schedule. Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services: 12 projects for which we have borrowed money, only two completed, one on track, 18 behind schedule. I do not need to go on, but the total below is that you have a total of 66 projects sampled by the finance ministry. Only six are completed, five are on track, 55 of these projects are behind schedule, including the ones that you will see that have stagnated. I will give a list here. I will be very brief because this is not my list, it is a list of Hon. Musasizi: Kampala-Jinja Expressway. We borrowed money to do this road. Let me go to the last line. This is how the finance ministry has assessed this. The physical progress of the project is zero. Money borrowed; progress is zero. They are saying let us borrow more. That is what is in the Budget Framework Paper. Busega-Mpigi Expressway. Construction is at 46 per cent. This road was supposed to have been completed years ago. They are at 46 per cent. Part of the reason you will see, they are saying they do not have counter-funding, and then they are saying let us borrow and begin more projects. That is why I said you even offend common sense. Entebbe Airport Rehabilitation. This one, there is progress but the point is because of the delays, we are now required to pay to the contractor the total sum of $34.9 million because we delayed. The contractor says you delayed here and here, pay me money. Even this one, although progressing, it was never delivered on time. The Development of the New Bukasa Port Project. This one has not started at all, still in the preliminary. Kampala Flyover Construction. The Finance ministry says it has stagnated. Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project. They are now revising it. Time elapsed. They are revising it, yet you know each revision comes with money. Multinational Kapchorwa-Suam-Kitale and Eldoret Bypass Road Project. This one has almost been completed but after a delay. Kyenjonjo-Hoima-Masindi-Kigumba Road. The project has not been completed; more money is needed. Multinational Lake Victoria Maritime Communication and Transport Project. Here, the overall progress is from 37 per cent by the end of April. All these projects have delayed, no counter-funding, they are contracting more. Luweero-Butalangu Road. Work is at 67 per cent. A road that they started nearly 10 years ago, they have not completed a short stretch. Moyo-Yumbe-Koboko Road Project, and you keep asking why the President repeat these roads in every budget? The progress, as you have seen, on some projects, is zero. Every

There was one very loud ‘Nay’ which should be captured properly. Honourable colleagues, I want to congratulate you on this task. I want to repeat that we are going to give you enough time to focus on the budgeting process and on the preparations. This being a transition year, we need to prepare very well so that we finish the budget by the end of April. Our plan, as the leadership, once again, is to prorogue the House at the end of April so that we prepare for the swearing-in of the new Parliament, which will be on 13, 14 and 15 May. The President will be sworn in on 12 May, and we want to take the opportunity to host the people invited to attend the President’s swearing-in, including you in Kampala, so that it is done at once. We have already agreed with the President about this. The House is adjourned sine die . (The House rose at 5.51 pm. and adjourned sine die.)

18264 TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HON. STELLA APOLOT ISODO Wednesday, 21 January 2026 Woman Representative, Ngora District, who passed away on Saturday, 17 January 2026. Hon. Apolot was a prominent member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), was highly respected, and had a friendly personality. She was a servant leader who was deeply loved by the people of Ngora and colleagues in Parliament. Her legislative track record was quite impactful. She served with distinction on the parliamentary Committees of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Equal Opportunities and National Economy. She was also an active member of the Parliamentary Sports Club, where she played netball. Honourable members, the death of Hon. Apolot brings to a total of seven Members of Parliament that we have lost in the 11 th Parliament. It is a very painful reality. As colleagues, we pray that the ever merciful Lord grants all our departed colleagues eternal rest. Death is an inevitable journey for all of us. In 2 Samuel 14:14, the Bible states that, “ For we will surely die and become like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again…” That is why we should all live to create a positive and lasting impact on our societies. At the end of the day, it is the memories we create that define our legacy. It is not how long we lived on earth, but how impactful we were on humanity. I, therefore, urge you to be deliberate in shaping your own legacy. What should humanity IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - SPECIAL SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I extend my and the people of Tororo District’s condolences to Hon. Isodo’s family, the Parliament and the people of Ngora. Unfortunately, we have started our first sitting of the year by paying tribute to a colleague; a lady who always quietly sat on the third row in that corner. Madam Speaker, the Hon. Isodo that I knew in this House was different from the Hon. Isodo I travelled with to Tororo, Bukwo and other parts of this country. She was extremely humble and quiet. However, I was shocked when she came to my community to celebrate International Women’s Day. I saw a different Hon. Stella Isodo. I said, “Stella, why don’t you bring this energy to the House?” She was very assertive and knowledgeable. She spoke with passion about women’s issues and matters of agriculture. Little wonder, Madam Speaker, that she championed the formation of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Cooperatives, where I belonged. She was passionate every time saying that, as members of this cooperative forum, we needed to push the Government to form or bring back the Cooperative Bank, and I hope that, at some time, we shall see this Cooperative Bank back. Hon. Isodo belonged to different fora, not only the Uganda Women’s Parliamentary Association. She also belonged to the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Children and the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Illicit Financial Flows and Tax Justice, where she was the secretary. Madam Speaker, it is very unfortunate that we have lost her at such a time. She was such a reliable person whenever we had meetings or engagements at short notice, as the Uganda Women’s Parliamentary Association. She was that person, who, if she were in Kampala and you called her, would put aside whatever she had to come and attend a meeting. That is how passionate she was on matters of women. The late Hon. Isodo, in addition to that, loved her family. I must say that she often spoke about her children and her husband. Sometimes, when we had meetings, maybe residential, I remember whenever her children were around, they would come to pick her up. She always made fun of and said, “Sarah, this is my family. It is complete. We fit in this car. We are just as you see us.” I was like, “Wow.” She loved her children; she loved her daughter, she loved her sons, and she often said, “I wish God could keep me until I see my children grow and become adults.” Unfortunately, God has taken her at such a time. Madam Speaker, as I end, the Bible tells us in Romans 6:23, that there will be eternal life for the righteous. I strongly believe that Hon. Isodo will rest in eternal peace. However, for the sinners in this country, please know that your destiny is death. There are many sinners. It is God who knows them. Rest in peace, Hon. Isodo.

18236 RESOLUTION TO BORROW and Nicholas Ayoo. For days, everyone was wondering about the whereabouts of these individuals. Eventually, the Head of State acknowledged that they had been detained — in a manner he metaphorically described as ‘put them in a fridge’ - and that they have now been released. The concern is that we are acting against the laws we establish. By the way, none of us is above the law. If it is suspected that I have committed an offence, regardless of who I am — whether I am a priest or a political leader — the law states that I must be produced in court. Maybe the Government needs to advise us: why are they choosing to break the law? Why hasn’t this Catholic priest, whom they say was involved in subversive activities, been brought to court? Present the evidence; let there be a trial. It is very important that this occurs. Otherwise, we face a significant challenge. Mr Speaker, we celebrate Janani Luwum Day. It is now a public holiday. Janani Luwum was abducted by the Idi Amin regime. He disappeared permanently. The last we heard, he was killed. This Government said that we should celebrate this man. The same situation seems to be happening today. We need answers. There is another citizen, Sarah Nambogo, and her 13-year-old child, who were also abducted outside Kampala Club. A 13-year-old child. This is a minor. I heard from several sources that they were scheduled for release today. I am not sure whether that has happened. The problem is, this person was abducted on 12 December. It has been several days. Where are they being held? Why don’t you arrest people properly if you believe they have committed an offence, and then produce them in a court of law? Finally, Mr Speaker, this is important for us here. On 10 December, the Uganda Government signed a health cooperation agreement with the US Government. This is intended to amount to about $2.2 billion. The US Government is expected to cover most of it, roughly $1.7 billion. It aims to support various initiatives, including strengthening our health system and improving disease surveillance. It should be a positive development when you think about it. However, here is the challenge: as Parliament, we are not informed about this significant fiscal obligation on our country. There has been no parliamentary scrutiny. There are concerns about data protection, medical data, and so on. Our colleagues in Kenya went to court because there was a similar deal signed by the Kenyan Government with the US Government, and they expressed concerns about data protection. The court has halted that deal. Why is the Government not keeping us in the loop if it is such a good deal, as it is being portrayed? Why do you not want parliamentary scrutiny, so that we can understand what kind of agreement this is? What is in it that so urgently needs to be kept from us? Mr Speaker, not long ago, I was here again, raising concerns about some arrangement that had been made between the Uganda Government and the US Government, to bring some convicts instead of deporting them to their countries of origin. I said, “Tell us about that. How did this happen? Why can’t they be taken to their countries of origin?” Mr Speaker, transparency is vital. If this deal is as favourable as claimed, bring it here. We serve the people, and you say this deal will benefit them. Allow parliamentary scrutiny. Let us be fully informed. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I stand here to support the motion. The southern part of Lake Kyoga lacks infrastructure to connect to the northern part of the lake. I am here to support it because this is one of the roads we have been advocating for in the physical infrastructure committee for the past 10 to 15 years. I am pleased that today this has reached what it is. Mr Speaker, additionally, the people of Serere – Kasilo – Kaberamaido and Kalaki will be beneficiaries of this project. It will improve the connectivity between the northern part and the southern part of Lake Kyoga. Needless to add, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should also look into adding a stop in Nakasongola to Galiraya, so that if you are coming from Masindi, you do not have to go to Kampala. You can connect from Masindi, Nakasongola, Kayunga, Isimba Dam, then to Kamuli, Kaliro, and finally to Pallisa. The other two roads that the minister for finance needs to look into are: Kamuli to Irundu and then Kaliro to Irundu. Once you do those roads on the southern part of Lake Kyoga, you would have improved the connectivity between the northern and the southern parts of the country. Definitely, with the ferries that are already operating and those that we are proposing to introduce on Lake Kyoga, you would reduce the time that we spend getting to Kampala. I could sleep in Kasilo and come here; within two hours, I would be in Kampala from Kasilo, rather than spending five hours. On that note, Mr Speaker, I stand here to support this loan for the construction of this road. Thank you.

Thank you, colleagues, for standing with the people of Bbale, Kayunga and Uganda on the need to upgrade this road. Mr Speaker, allow me to put forward only three matters. Much has been said about the same road, but I see it as a way to reduce traffic congestion in Kampala and on Bombo Road. Given Uganda’s geography, goods exported from the east to the West Nile and the north must pass through Kampala and the Bombo Road. When this road is paved and tarmacked, it will reduce all of that. It will benefit not only the people of Bbale but also the business community and Ugandans in the city. Mr Speaker, I also request that, after tarmacking this road, the Ministry of Works and Transport assess the connectivity from Bbale to Nakasongola, as this is how the objective of reducing the traffic jam can be achieved. This way, all vehicles from the east can branch off from the Nile Bridge to Jinja, Kayunga, Nakasongola and Masindi. Then, the entire burden of the traffic jam will have been reduced. Mr Speaker, for the good of the Members on the other side, this is a road that the NRM Government has promised for a long time to the people of Kayunga. For your information, President Museveni has, on three consecutive occasions while campaigning in Kayunga, promised this road. It is a debt owed by the Government to the people of Kayunga. By tarmacking it, you are paving the way to justify at least some reasonable action for the people of Kayunga. Mr Speaker, I would also like to remind Members about the safety — it is not just security but safety. The connectivity of northern to central Uganda is not only serving a security matter, but ensuring the safety of the people in transit, and the goods can easily move. Lastly, Mr Speaker, the Obote government had promised to tarmac this road; in fact, we have the Obote Memorial Portrait in Kayunga, in Hon. Amos Lugoloobi’s constituency. The Obote government aimed to tarmac this road and name it “Obote Road”. Now that Obote is not in government and he did work on this road, and Tebandeke Charles, on behalf of the people of Bbaale, has toiled a lot and moved - (Interjections) – Members, I even reached the extent of going to the bush and people misunderstood my action. I think the bush has got a lot of results. I am thinking that for any demand, maybe we should go to the bush. MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Thank you, Mr Speaker. As far as the Shs 4 billion is concerned, today, we interacted with the Permanent Secretary and officials from the finance ministry, and the Permanent Secretary assured us that they will provide the Shs 4 billion in the remaining two financial quarters. Mr Speaker, the other request that maybe the Government can take on, one of the quickest projects which is under implementation, is the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Project. One of the reasons is that people were offered free land. This is the first time that we approved a loan for a road in a term of Parliament and actually drove on the same road completed within the same term of Parliament. For the Kayunga-Galiraya road project, people also offered free land. This helps to cut down costs and fast-track the implementation. If we can adopt this procedure - if people are offering land within Kampala, where it is the most expensive, what about in the rural areas? Probably, we need to change the narrative. We should educate people so that they start offering land. The minister said that even in Karamoja, where land is huge, people are demanding compensation. Probably, that will help us to save lots of money and also fast- track the implementation of projects.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. This facility is being sought to finance the operations of the Uganda National Oil Company. This is for purposes of financing. It is really about our fuel security. The development of the Kampala storage terminal, development of the pipeline jetty and associated terminal at Jinja storage terminal, acquisition of a storage facility for gas oil at Mombasa Port, at least one year’s financing towards the refinery project, acquisition of shares in the Kenya Pipeline Company and the extension of the pipeline projects from Eldoret to Kampala. If you may recall, when we were discussing an amendment to the Public Finance and Management Act (PFMA), we did mention to the House at the time that, at times it is very important and difficult for commercial arms of Government to consistently come here. As we speak, UNOC is ready to start investing in all these projects. It has found very cheap financing, which is available now and is on an overdraft basis. It is now going to be available to them to use as and when these projects come on stream. If Parliament breaks off and any of these things come on stream, then we cannot deal with them. We request that Parliament really consider this because it is a commercial business of UNOC. Mr Speaker, for example, we have the Kampala storage terminal. Right now, all the products that we import have to be released into the stations. We do not have any fuel security; the same applies to the Jinja storage terminal. Currently, all our oil that is transported through the pipeline has to be evacuated at Eldoret and then trucked here. An effort is being made to do the pipeline to Kampala. This is quite urgent. We request that you allow UNOC to carry out its operation even when Parliament is on recess. I beg to submit. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. As a way of background, in August 2023, the Government, through the Uganda National Oil Company, entered into a petroleum products supply agreement with Vitol Bahrain, a global leader in crude oil and petroleum product supply and marketing, for sole importation of all of Uganda’s demand for petrol, diesel and aviation fuel. UNOC, together with Vitol, commenced sole importation business in July 2024 and has, as of December 2025, successfully delivered this mandate, attaining the principle objectives of market supply stability and competitive prices while generating revenue. To date, UNOC has generated a gross profit of up to a net of $150 million. In addition to the sole importation mandate, UNOC is engaged in several projects across the petroleum value chain, which include the following: 1. Development of the Kampala storage terminal. 2. Development of pipeline jetty and associated terminal enhancement at Jinja storage terminal. 3. Acquisition of Mombasa storage to handle gas oil through the purchase of a terminal. 4. At least the first year of construction of Uganda’s refinery. 5. Acquisition of shares in the Kenya Pipeline Company. 6. Extension of the finished products pipeline from Eldoret to Kampala. In addition, there is an urgent need to revamp and build key national roads to support the 10- fold growth strategy, inclusive of enabling and facilitating oil and gas infrastructure to ease the movement of petroleum products across the country. On the backdrop of the successful partnership on sole fuel importation, Vitol indicated willingness to provide financing support for the implementation of UNOC projects and other critical Government infrastructure. In May 2025, UNOC and Vitol concluded a memorandum of understanding for financing cooperation to explore the potential funding of UNOC projects and critical infrastructure projects. Since the signing of the Paris Agreement at the United Nations (UN) Climate Change conference of parties, COP21, in Paris, France in December 2025, the global energy systems have experienced a policy shift, what they call energy transition, away from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources that are considered to have a lower carbon emissions footprint and by some measures more sustainable in the long term. The outcome of this energy transition has been a shift in public policy and global capital investment away from traditional petroleum investments, as well as increasing climate activism against fossil fuel investments. Honourable colleagues, the mentioned Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) projects have not been insulated from this global policy shift and its repercussions. For example, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), the flagship project of Uganda’s oil and gas

18257 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 16 DECEMBER 2025 sector, experienced significant environmental activism and challenges in raising finances to achieve Financial Close and yet EACOP has maintained the highest international environmental and social standards, enjoys the support of the host Governments of Uganda and Tanzania, as well as significant investment from internationally-recognised companies such as Total Energies and China National Offshore Oil Corporation(CNOOC). Mr Speaker, Government infrastructure has equally faced challenges, whereby the sources of financing for infrastructure have become increasingly expensive, and several infrastructural projects have experienced a slowdown or stoppage due to limited funding. Therefore, the purpose of the VBA financing proposal presents an opportunity to access non-traditional financing to implement UNOC projects and support the Government in developing national infrastructure. Whereas VBA is not a traditional lender, it has become common practice for global commodity traders and other investors who have strong cash flows, balance sheets, and access to cheaper capital to enter into similar tailor-made financing agreements with host governments and national parastatals worldwide. In accordance with Section 34 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015, I present to the House the details of the loan facility that include the terms of the facility, additional conditions, and investment priorities. The proposed $2 billion will be used to finance the following projects: 1. $1.2 billion will be utilised to finance the following UNOC projects; 2. Development of Kampala Storage Terminal; i. Development of Pipeline Jetty and associated terminal enhancement at Jinja Storage Terminal; ii. Acquisition of Mombasa storage to handle gas oil through the purchase of a terminal; iii. At least the first year of construction of the Uganda Refinery; iv. Acquisition of shares in Kenya Pipeline Company; v. Extension of the finished products pipeline from Eldoret to Kampala. B. $800 million will be utilised to finance national roads infrastructure projects. Financing Terms VBA will provide UNOC with a loan facility amounting to $2 billion, on the following terms: 1. The lender is Vitol Bahrain E.C. (BVA); 2. The borrower is Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC); 3. The repayment party is UNOC through capitalisation from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development; 4. The loan facility is $2 billion; 5. The tenure is 84 months (seven years), including a grace period; 6. The grace period is 24 months (two years); interest accrues, i.e., instead of being paid on each disbursement, this interest is deferred (“accrued”); 7. The repayment profile - after the two- year grace period, the Government will pay $100 million of principal plus interest every quarter on the utilised amounts only; 8. The interest rate is three three-month term Secured Overnight Financing Rate(SOFR), currently at 3.92 per cent plus 1 per cent margin, which brings it to 4.92 per cent all in; 9. Other fees are nil; 10. Other key features: i. Cash flows up to an agreed minimum amount from UNOC projects funded by the facility are deposited in Escrow Accounts as security for the term of the loan (seven years); ii. Option to increase the loan amount; iii. Utilisation to be made within five years after the execution of the facility.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. The revenue that is generated by UNOC as a business arm does not go to the Consolidated Fund. It is business. Therefore, the monies they are talking about here are not akin to the revenues made from the petroleum products. These are the monies made from the business. Say, you do the Kampala Storage Terminal, and you make revenue from that. That is what is supposed to be put in the Rules-Based Account. Actually, it is good for us because then we have been given an opportunity to make sure that the money, as it gets out of there, there are rules that we can actually follow. So, it is not left to UNOC alone. VBA is a partner, yes. I think what we are saying here is that the urgency is the commercial aspect of the business. That UNOC wants to do business. However, UNOC still has to report to Parliament in terms of its business.

18194 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Tuesday, 2 December 2025 receive the National Budget Framework Paper pursuant to Section 8(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 and Rule 152 of the Rules of Procedure. I also want to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to those who are campaigning like my Leader of the Opposition (LOP). My LOP, I would like to congratulate you on winning the case. Congratulations. We wish all of you well in this ongoing election. We want you back in the House. I also congratulate all those that are unopposed. I congratulate and wish everybody well. (Applause) As we prepare to come back to the 12 th Parliament, honourable members, as you may be aware, the Parliament of Uganda is hosting the East African Inter-parliamentary games from 6 to 17 December 2025. I urge all of you to participate in your various disciplines as we protect the gains of Uganda. We need to protect the gains of EALA and –(Laughter) On a sad note, on Tuesday 25 November, we lost one of our former Members of Parliament, Hon. Canon Absolom Ongom Abednego. He used to represent Omoro County in the National Resistance Council (NRC), that is 1996 and 2001. He will be laid to rest on Saturday, 6 December 2025. We relay our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Omoro and all the loved ones. May we rise and observe a moment of silence in his honour. (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 5TH SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 2.01 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Finally, Madam Speaker, we are getting close to an election. The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in April of this year was here, and he told us that they are going to table regulations on how biometric voter verification machines are going to be applied in the upcoming election. He made that commitment. That time they were seeking supplementary funding to purchase more of these kits, and we asked, where are you basing all of this? He promised here on the Floor - April of 2025 - that he will bring the regulations. We have one month until the election. They keep coming and asking for money including some of the supplementary budgets that are going to be tabled. They want money for the voter- verification machines. What guidelines are you going to base on? I saw candidate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni make a statement when he was campaigning somewhere. He said the biometric machines are what we are going to use mandatorily. A polling station where the machine will not work, voting will not happen. I was a bit confused there, and I want the Government to clarify. With our network issues, we saw what happened in the last election and with the sensors. In the far-to-reach areas, including Kampala and the neighbouring areas, the network will fail and usage will fail. Therefore, if you say we are going to use these biometric machines mandatorily, and where they do not work there will be no voting, what will happen to Hon. Dan Kimosho who also says he is targeted sometimes. If they say they do not want this man back, they can make sure that at his polling stations, the machines fail or any other person anyway. That means no voting will happen. What happens? For those regulations, we need them so that we are able to interact with them, punch holes in them, and otherwise. Thank you for accommodating my concerns, Madam Speaker.

18213 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 2 DECEMBER 2025 This schedule was meant for Vote 016: Ministry of Works and Transport, in order to fix various roads. Aware that there were about seven suspended projects amounting to 395 kilometres. Projects such as Moroto- Lokitanyala of about 42 kilometres, Najjanankumbi-Busabala Road, 36.5 kilometres, Mityana-Mubende Road, about 100 kilometres and Kampala-Jinja Expressway of about 72 kilometres had been suspended due to lack of funding. 11 projects were under reduced progress. There was a go-slow coming to around 533 kilometres. They include roads like Olwiyo- Pakwach, Kisubi-Nakawuka and Kasanje- Mpigi - that one, after you approve the money, work will be progressing. About nine bridges projects were affected by the constraint in financing. The likes of Katonga Bridge and Ssezibwa all went at a go- slow. Colleagues, the details of this are attached in annexes 2 and 3. Madam Speaker, I do not know whether it will be important –

18214 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR There is also a section enabling access to Kabaale International Airport of about 3.2 kilometres. There is Kawuku-Bwerenga Road – Hon. Naluyima, congratulations. Your cries have been listened to. Tell our people that the road is going to become super. Laropi-Afoji Road – that is the West Nile road – and also Laropi Bridge. Things are getting better. There is upgrading of Katine-Ochero. Hon. Ebwalu, Katine-Ochero Road is here. Kampala-Jinja Expressway – this is to clear the right of way. We also have an oil road from Karugutu- Ntoroko. I saw Hon. Ibanda. There is also Kitgum-Orom-Karenga Road. Madam Speaker, you had inquired about this road - (Interjection)- very good. Your pronunciation is better. Karenga – they wrote “…ng”. I pronounce it as “nga”. That road is 116 kilometres. Madam Speaker, we also have Kitala-Gerenge Road, Kigumba-Bulima Road and Kagandi Bridge, which is supposed to be part of this. There is Bumbobi-Lwakhakha Road and Mubende-Kakumiro-Kagadi Road. All those need improvements. Madam Speaker, those are the roads so far provided under this supplementary schedule No. 2, amounting to Shs 1,696,000,000,000. I beg the House to approve so that the General goes direct to do the work.

LOP, actually what you are saying is correct because even when we empower, most of the empowerment is within the Kampala youth; your voters. You find the Bukedea people complaining. You are one of the beneficiaries of this empowerment. You see this kind of thing.

Thank you, Hon. Atkins Katusabe. Yes, Government? IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 16TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.11 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

18005 Tuesday, 16 September 2025 are the original members of the East African community, are the pillars. The meeting was also attended by the Opposition Chief Whip, Hon. “Bishop” Nambeshe - our presiding apostle, from Bududa District, who is also a prophet. (Laughter) A prophet of good things. Anyhow, being the major pillars of the East African Community, and as you well know, Kenya just hosted the 2024 edition, Tanzania also said they are in elections, like Uganda, and they hosted the previous one. Since Uganda was next in line, they requested that we host. We said that with our role within the Community, and because we are the next in line after Burundi, we agreed to that proposal. So, the next East African Parliamentary Games will be hosted in Uganda, from the 5 th to the 17 th of December. As already communicated by the Rt Hon. Speaker, we urge you, honourable colleagues, to start training. This training is not only about games but also about our health; it is good for us. I hope Hon. Ssemujju will represent us very well. If we can - we refused to include boxing because we knew some Members would not face any competition. So, I am very sure we are going to do very well. Honourable colleagues, yesterday I watched a very disturbing story on the BBC television, IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 15TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.14 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Mr Speaker, to supplement your point, we have nothing to show, yet we have the National Development Plan, the NRM manifesto, the Cabinet and presidential directives from time to time, which have all been supported by this House through the budget. We also have the budget monitoring, whose reports come here. If we go to the countryside and within Kampala - I can start from Kampala, by the way. Not long ago, together with the President, we commissioned the Kampala flyover project. The roads in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area are under construction. The list is endless. Therefore, Mr Speaker, the assertion that we have nothing to show is really not correct. On the Parish Development Model (PDM) - every parish in this country has received at least Shs 300 million. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I want to thank the House and you for the good work you are doing for this country, especially in the area of health. You know, when you have a healthy population, it means you have a good working population. Madam Speaker, as you have stated, Kamuli Hospital does not treat only the people of Kamuli. I want to assure you that even we, as the neighbouring district, people from Jinja, also go to Kamuli for the same. When you look at Busoga as a subregion, in the 12 districts, the only referral hospital that we have is Jinja Hospital. However, when you go to Jinja Hospital, it is densely populated. In addition, we have the new constituencies, Madam Speaker, like my constituency. As of now, it is the policy of this Government for each constituency to have at least a health centre IV, IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 14TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.01 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Myself, together with all Ugandans, join you to wish Tooro Kingdom a happy anniversary. On the matter of rhinos, we have noted that ours is “Kira, the source of the Nile”. We wish to request the Ministry for Tourism, once again, to take further stock of the kind of tourism we have in the country. It is quite enormous. When you get to a country like Zimbabwe - at least I have benefited from the Parliament of Uganda which has taken me to see how Zimbabwe is strengthening tourism. Zimbabwe showcases everything, especially the Victoria Falls. Let us also enhance whatever detail we have and at the end of it all - Ugandans might find someone busy going to Victoria Falls yet he or she has never seen the source of the Nile. It is therefore key that the Ministry for Tourism leads this. Not only schools should go for tours. Let us also strengthen and enhance tourism as a country because we are the pearl of Africa. Other countries do not have anything but are busy talking and selling their tourist sites and yet Uganda has a lot. We urge the Ministry for Tourism to strengthen its marketing skills as IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 13TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Annet Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. We, the people of Tororo, do not have a kingdom. We have traditional leaders because kings are born but ours are elected. So, on behalf of the two cultural institutions that is the Iteso Cultural Union and the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution, I want to wish the people of Tooro a happy celebration. I would also like to congratulate all those, specifically the Ministry for Tourism and Wildlife but also the various stakeholders, who have ensured that this country restores the rhino population that was almost extinct in the early 1980s. I know that there was a deliberate effort to ensure that we grow the rhino population in the country and I want to thank those individuals who took this up because today, if they had not done so, the rhinos would be extinct. However, Madam Speaker, when you move to certain countries, friendly animals like rhinos are within certain hotels. If you go to Zimbabwe, you will find hotels with animals like zebras, rhinos and the tourists - even within Kampala, we would not need to travel. They could travel but it is something that hotels that have land can adopt so that they have these animals within these hotels. I would like to call upon the Ministry for Tourism to interest themselves and the various stakeholders with land and hotels to have these friendly animals. Thank you.

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Switch on.

It is one of the roads under the Kampala Capital City Authority Management. Madam Speaker, I do not know it might even be in the constituency of the honourable Leader of the Opposition – (Interjections) - it is Kawempe. However, I also want to interest you to look at the master plan under the Kampala Metropolitan Development Roads structure. Those roads are there. The other issue, which I again want to mention here, is the question of welfare of the former national players. We have the law here, under the National Sports Act, 2023. I want to interest Parliament that this law gives us, the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to see what incentives we can offer. For instance, the superstars who are before us now, if you gave me money, I would be able to give them beyond what they have received. That is already taken care of.

17940 TRIBUTE TO THE UGANDA NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM Transformation.” The national event highlights West Nile region’s tourism potential and aims to drive socio-economic transformation through sustainable community-driven tourism initiatives. The celebrations will align with the global theme of tourism and sustainable transformation. The event underscores Uganda’s commitment to using tourism as a tool of social and economic development. This theme also reminds us that tourism is more than leisure and travel. It is a driver of long-term change, creating livelihoods, safeguarding cultural heritage, protecting biodiversity and promoting inclusive growth, hence ensuring that tourism benefits both present and future generations while aligning with global development goals. Countries all over the world, and Uganda in particular, are increasingly prioritising tourism as a key part of the national development agenda. I thank the Government and this Parliament for the support they have given to this sector through your leadership. As a driver of economic growth and inclusive development, the tourism sector contributes about 5.7 per cent to GDP and employs around 7.2 per cent directly of the total employment as per statistics of 2024 in this country. It is, therefore, fitting that this year’s national World Tourism Day celebrations will take place in Arua in the West Nile Region. Arua is a gateway to both domestic and cross-border tourism with its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups and untapped tourism potential. By bringing the celebrations to Arua, we want to showcase the tourism opportunities of the West Nile region and integrate the region more strongly into the national tourism development agenda. Madam Speaker, as we count down to 27 th September, the ministry, together with its agencies and partners, has lined up a series of activities across the country. They are there, and the Members can go through them. On the 2 nd , there was a launch, and on the 11 th of September, there will be a tourism fraternity which will be held, the Youth Tourism Conference and Quiz at Arua Core PTC. On Thursday, 18 th September, there will be a thematic conference in Kampala, a rhino naming ceremony on the 22 nd of September, and on Wednesday 24 th to Thursday, 25 th of September, West Nile students will engage in a competition on cultural dances, poetry and tourism fraternity will participate in sports and cycling and various other activities at Arua Public School. Then from the 25 th to the 27 th , there will be an open day with free park access to all national parks for East African citizens. I encourage Members of Parliament, please, you can mobilise a couple of your voters to access for these two days at no cost. On Friday, 26 September 2025, Arua City will host a regional tourism forum at La Confidential Hotel in Arua City, and we have invited all Members of Parliament both in writing and I want to still re-echo the same. Please mobilise people; come and we interact, share ideas and see how we grow this region in this conference on the 26 th . On Saturday, 27 September 2025, the main event of World Tourism Day will be held at Arua City Golf Course. Then, we will have an Explore West Nile campaign from the 28 th to the 29 th of September. We will have a couple of influencers, celebrities and various Ugandans shine a light to showcase what this area has to offer. In conclusion, this year’s focus on West Nile with Arua City as a host is a demonstration of our commitment to inclusive and regionally balanced tourism development across the West Nile. The promise of tourism is tangible. The region is blessed with unique cultural traditions, vibrant festivals, diverse cuisines and landscapes of extraordinary beauty. I still wish to invite all Members of Parliament and staff to join us as we celebrate World Tourism Day. [Mr Mugarra] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

Madam Speaker, I thank you so much and in a very special way, I thank the committee chairperson, for a very good report, I also thank and the committee members, and the minister, my OB, and formerly a member of my political laboratory, thank you so much. This is the best loan that this House has procured for Bugiri General Hospital. One time, the former prime minister had a chopper accident in Bugiri – (Interjection) - I am building the motion –( Laughter) - Prof. Nsibambi was taken to Bugiri Hospital. He could not stay there for three minutes because of the condition of Bugiri Hospital. They had to call all types ambulances from nearby; he was brought to Kampala immediately. I said, “Former prime minister” because at that time, he was the prime minister. Bugiri, as a district, and Bugiri General Hospital serve the neighbouring districts, including people from Kenya –

Yes, that is why I started from that note. Congratulations! As Busoga sub- region, we are very happy for you to be in that position, now that you are even our mulamu . Madam Speaker, I rise on the issue of the Uganda Cranes. We are very lucky that we won IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 12TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in the Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17900 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT On the Agago-Gulu transmission line, there was a loan of €40 million, which is a huge amount of money; undispatched is 18 per cent and undispatched is 21 per cent. The Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation loan amount is of €224 million. Dispatched stood at 58. Then, 169 undispatched, and you can go on and on - Project per project to 16. The committee observed that most of the loans will not be absorbed by the end of their tenure. For example, Mbarara-Masaka had performed at only 3 per cent. Luwero-Butalanga Road had performed at 23 per cent. Madam Speaker, I sympathise with the President. You find him at the State of Nation Address reading about roads saying, these are done, these are going to be done. Money will be borrowed but remains on the account. Some of the grants are not being done, and you are busy on a budget day, reading all kinds of roads, power lines, water for money that will not be dispatched, and my sympathy goes to the old man. Generally, the committee observed that the average undispatched loan performance stands at 37 per cent, far below average, indicating significant under performance in project deliverables, and yet those undispatched loans continue to attract commitment charges, which increase the cost of debt servicing. Review of the Auditor-General’s report by the committee revealed an increase in undispatched funds of Shs 1.90 trillion at the end of June 2024, from Shs 14.6 trillion in the financial year to Shs 16.49 trillion. Of the money which you, Madam Speaker, defied all odds to ensure you pass to these government offices, Shs 16 trillion of this money remains undispatched out there. You have done your part, cleared them to go and implement but every day, this Parliament is approving loans for which - you cannot feed an animal that cannot consume the food you feed it. That is why, Madam Speaker, you should at least be cautious in placing those questions because they have no absorption capacity, representing a 22 per cent increment. Also, commitment fees –

17907 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER 2025 support the Uganda Prisons Service’s efforts in constructing the accommodation space. Also, as a sector of Justice, Law and Order, we must enhance efficiency systems to hasten the administration of justice. This would free up space in prisons. Overstay on remand Analysis of prisoners’ statistics revealed that prisoners on remand make 48 per cent of the total prisoner population so this should be taken note of. We have so many inmates in prison and the ratio is simply too high. Honourable colleagues, take note of the high ratio of custodial staff to prisoners. The Auditor-General noted that as of 30 June 2024, the staffing levels at Uganda prisons were at 14,145 staff against the approved structure of 42,724 staff, leaving 28,579 positions vacant. The number of custodial staff was at 11,576, serving a population of 79,757 prisoners, resulting in a high average custodial staff to prisoner ratio of 1:7 instead of the recommended ratio of 1:3, meaning that every staff of prison looks after seven prisoners. When you look at the table detailed down, for example, when it comes to Kampala, the prisoner to staff ratio is 1:17 in some areas. In some areas like Masaka, it is 1:12. In some areas, like Masindi, it is 1:16, meaning that the prison staff are overworked. Long distances between prisons and courts Honourable colleagues, you should note that the Auditor-General noted that the long distances between prisons and court locations, with some prisons located more than 20 kilometres from the nearest courts that prisoners need to attend. This table shows the distances between prisons and the courts. Honourable colleagues, as we read, we must pay attention to this sector of Justice, Law and Order. Operationalisation of the Prisoners Management Information System also has a lot of challenges. Under budgeting for domestic arrears The Auditor-General reviewed the approved estimates for the year and noted that Shs 9.7 billion was provided and released to settle domestic arrears. However, domestic arrears brought forward from the previous year were Shs 182 billion. The arrears were Shs 182.35 billion versus a budget that was provided of Shs 9.7 billion, causing a shortfall of Shs 172 billion in arrears versus the budget that was provided. There is a serious challenge of under-budgeting for domestic arrears. The same entity faces challenges of accumulation of domestic arrears. Inadequacy in disposing of civil and criminal cases We still have a challenge of delay in the disposal of civil and criminal cases. The table shows the delays in the prison sector. Accumulation of bail fees An analysis of refunds revealed that the percentage of bail refunds relative to the bail balance remains below 30 per cent, with only 10 per cent refunded in the Financial Years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024. To date, we have an outstanding balance on bail funds of Shs 24.291 billion, meaning those who pay bail fees do not get an opportunity to receive that money back. The committee recommends that the accounting officer should consider restructuring the bail refund process through digitalisation. This would reduce the long bureaucracy and other administrative delays to improve accessibility and ensure timely restitution to litigants. The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs This one has long outstanding court awards and compensation, honourable colleagues. This is the only matter among others that is so important under the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, where the Auditor-

Madam Speaker, I thank you in your capacity as the Patron of the Parliamentary Sports Club. On the issue of the games, this is just to inform honourable colleagues that all the facilities where we are supposed to do training from have been availed to the parliamentary teams. I would like to request that Members do report. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 10TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in the Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I agree with you. Let me go back to what Hon. Sarah has just said, that children from far distances should not visit. Most children get motivated to study harder when they come and see wonderful places like this. If you went to Terego District, where we do not even have tarmacked roads, and they come to Kampala, and see this kind of sophistication, they will be motivated to go to Makerere University. It would be good to say that children like mine who come from long distances -

First of all, I would like to thank Hon. Sarah Opendi and Hon. Rose Obigah. It is true that the Ministry of Education and Sports issued a circular to all the districts in the country regarding study tours. In that circular, Madam Speaker, if you permit me, I will bring it here and lay it on the Table for all of us to help as the education ministry continues with this communication to that effect. The circular was very clear on the kind of transport our children should use when going on study tours, and the kind of study tours. We gave approvals to be undertaken by the district education officers for the purposes of regulating these study tours. You are also aware that some schools are making it a business, which is why we said there must be the involvement of the District Education Officer in terms of clearing whether it is a study tour or entertainment. I would like to reiterate to our countrymen and women out there, the Ministry of Education and Sports does not stop study tours but guides on how they should be conducted. For instance, Madam Speaker, like you said, which kind of transport and at what time should our children travel? It is one which we have all been able to categorically state in terms of the guidelines in the circular we issued. We expect our children to move from morning to evening, and the study tour to be cognisant of the mode of accommodation where our children will be staying should be taken care of very well. Madam Speaker, I want to take up what is now happening in the countryside and also bring in the Uganda Police Force to look at the means and the category of transport which are being used for our children to move with. For instance, you said, how can you carry children in an open truck to Kampala? How can you carry children on a vehicle in the Dangerous Mechanical Condition (DMC), which is not well-maintained? These are entirely things we appeal to all of us to be involved in. Honourable colleague, you wanted a clarification, let me give you - (Hon. Zaake rose_)

17753 Wednesday, 3 September 2025 Alebtong, Amuria, Abim, Bukedea, and most parts of Soroti. The transport infrastructure and other livelihoods have been severely affected. I am told the people in Bulambuli do not have food. Their little bridge that connects Abim and Obalanga in Kapelebyong has been washed away, while the Moroto Bridge remains at risk. Gardens have been submerged. I was also told by Hon. Amero that her little coffee has been swept away, so, I do not know what she is going to use for her retirement. I urge the Minister of Disaster Preparedness and Refugees to evaluate the situation and take appropriate action to see how we can remedy what is happening. Honourable members, we may be aware that the prevailing electoral roadmap by the Electoral Commission indicates that the parliamentary nominations are going to be on 15 th and 16 th October - that is one thing a Member of Parliament would know. We need to be ready for it. Make sure you have all that is required for you to be nominated. Look at the law. Do not reach there, and they tell you that you do not have a clearing certificate. Please do that. To the committee chairpersons and Members who have work before them, can you have all the work completed before we go for nominations? This is because we are going to be sitting from now until that time. We will not have a break because we need to dispose of all the business that is before committees. I wish all of you well. I know it is not an easy time, IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 9TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17767 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 3 SEPTEMBER 2025 4. Create a structured mechanism for ongoing dialogue with local government leaders, and a transparent transition plan to address implementation challenges and minimise disruption. Issue 3: The provision of transport for top local government leaders Local government leaders face chronic transport constraints that impede oversight, timely supervision of programmes, and participation in essential meetings, including those in Kampala. Without reliable mobility, managers cannot promptly monitor project implementation, attend critical planning sessions, or respond to emerging issues, which slows decision-making, undermines supervision, and weakens accountability to communities. The logistical gaps contribute to uneven service delivery across the districts and erode public trust in the decentralisation framework as communities observe delays and inconsistent responsiveness from their leaders. We appreciate His Excellency, the President, and Parliament that approved a supplementary budget for the procurement of district, city, and municipal mayors’ vehicles. We further appreciate the efforts being taken by the Government to procure these vehicles. Proposed action The Government should expedite the procurement and delivery of vehicles for the district, city and municipal leaders with a publicly-released implementation timeline. Issue 4: The recruitment of staff Staffing shortages persist nationwide, with current levels of roughly 30 to 60 per cent of approved structures. Newly placed cities and other units face wage bill ceilings and staffing constraints that prevent filling essential positions, hampering core functions such as service delivery, planning, supervision, and community engagement. The resulting vacancies compromise essential processes; basically, revenue administration, public works, health, education, oversight, and local economic development, leading to backlogs, reduced quality of service, and increased workloads on remaining staff. Communities bear the brunt as essential public functions stall, undermining confidence in the decentralisation framework. Proposed action 1. Madam Speaker, they urge the ministries of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and Public Service to approve and enable an adequate wage bill to recruit and fill all approved posts across districts, cities, municipalities, and lower local governments; and 2. Establish a concrete monitoring plan with targets and deadlines for vacancy reduction, including quarterly reporting to Parliament, and an annual public update on staffing levels and service delivery indicators. Issue 5: The provision of road equipment for cities and municipalities Urban expansion has outpaced maintenance capacities. Cities and municipalities do not possess the necessary road equipment to maintain roads and support economic activity. Inadequate road equipment leads to poor road quality, longer travel times, safety risks, and higher operational costs for local governments. Without reliable equipment, maintenance cycles slip, potholes proliferate, and investment confidence erodes. This constrains local economic development and public safety, and undermines the Government’s ability to deliver reliable infrastructure services that are critical to growth and livelihoods. Proposed actions 1. Allocate and deploy essential road equipment as follows:

Honourable members, petitions are one of the avenues for citizen engagement in pursuit of legislative remedies. When our members out there have issues, they can bring them to the House in the form of a petition. And for this case, the petition was brought. I will now invite Hon. Byakatonda to IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 8TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am also happy I have one of my Sheikhs from Kalungu. If you permit it, he can stand up. At least that one is mine as well. I am seconding this motion because I have done some law. On several occasions, I have met the Omulangira Kassim Nakibinge of Kibuli, and he has expressed to me several reasons as to why these Qhadi courts are needed. The Islamic faith is different from my faith. The procedures for managing their marriage affairs are quite different, and this law is very precedential at this particular moment. We should, therefore, process it and have their rights endeavoured and managed through the laws that govern them. At one time, we talked about the Marriage and Divorce Bill, and I accompanied the Muslims on the streets of Kampala - women were saying, “You cannot have this Marriage and Divorce Bill without encompassing Muslims because the methods and the rules governing us are different”. So, I would like to thank Hon. Basalirwa for allowing me to be among those seconding the motion because my family has both Catholics and Muslims. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. About a week or two ago, a school was taking pupils to visit - I do not know where they were going, but the school bus was involved in an accident, and I think two children passed on. Madam Speaker, just before we broke off for recess, the Ministry of Education and Sports issued guidelines stopping schools from taking children, especially those travelling long distances, for these visits. Madam Speaker, the education minister is here, but I am still seeing – (Interjections) - I am not talking about these ones; they are from within. I am still seeing children being brought from distant places to Kampala to visit despite the guidance from the Ministry of Education and Sports. Can the education ministry – this now looks like an income-generating activity for schools. Therefore, Madam Speaker, can the minister brief us on these guidelines so we can guide our people back home? These guidelines were issued, but children are still being “tortured” and asked for money to pay for travel, to visit different places. If a child does not pay, the child is tortured at school. Since the minister is here, would it not be procedurally right for us to be updated on these school visits, including the charges? This is another activity away from

17678 MINISTERIAL S T ATEMENT Wednesday, 6 August 2025 among others. You will find this business, like what we talked about yesterday, of how the children had an accident in a bus. I am told the driver was sleepy; it was moving at night. All those kinds of things are dangerous for us. We need to call upon everybody to be responsible on the road. If you know the road is bad, then be responsible enough for you not to get an accident. Relatedly, honourable members, there was also another accident in one of the schools in Mukono, where one of the children drowned in a swimming pool. I want to call upon the operators of schools to strengthen and ensure the safety of learners in their schools. They must take care of people’s children because if they do not do that, there will be uncertainty about what happens. People will lose confidence in these schools. They will not be sure whether they take their children to school, whether they are safe or not. We need to prioritise safety in all public spaces. Honourable members, pursuant to Rule 196(4) of the Rules of Procedure, Hon. Suubi Juliet Kyinyamatama, Woman Member of Parliament, Rakai, is hereby designated from the sectoral Committee on Education and Sports to the Committee on Lands. As I said yesterday, the Committee on Lands did not have a sufficient number for it to start operating. Now that the Government has not come in to designate, I have designated an independent. (Question put and agreed to.) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 7TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. May the souls of the deceased rest in peace. Madam Speaker, the Committee on Physical Infrastructure should take more interest in the roads. As we talk now, one of the major challenges we have on most highways is that the roads are not marked, and we need to take a keen interest in that. I do not know whether the Ministry of Works and Transport is contracting anyone to work on that. Here in Kampala, they have introduced traffic lights, but the boda boda cyclists do not respect them at all. We cannot remain in this kind of situation. What is happening in Kampala now is that pedestrians have no right of way; you struggle to walk. All the citizens in the country, whether you are a pedestrian or are driving, in other countries, give more attention to pedestrians than to those driving vehicles. What is happening on our roads is pathetic. I raised that matter here one time. Along Masaka road, we have spent four years diverted through Mpigi to go to Masaka, yet the diversion was temporary because they were trying to work on the road. We do not know what is happening. On road markings in Uganda, even when you are charging traffic offence fines, you must be showing road signs on the road. I do not know what the traffic police use to determine that someone has committed an offence on the road when the roads are not marked. It is very painful to lose many people because of negligence. When you are driving at night, the markings and paintings on the road will inform someone that they are driving on this side, and the light will show the one coming from the other side how they travel using the markings. The Ministry of Works and Transport should come and explain this. Thank you.

Thank you for the opportunity. It is sad that we lost such a large number of people. However, Madam Speaker, we have another challenge likely to cause a similar accident. For us who use the Hoima-Kampala Road, there is too much dust. We have complained several times to the contractor, but he has kept quiet. If you are driving and a vehicle bypasses you, you have to park for at least 20 minutes because you cannot see what is ahead and what is behind. I request the minister to force the contractor to water that road on a daily basis, three times, to avoid accidents that are likely to occur –

17685 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 6 AUGUST 2025 Honourable members, you will also recall that you heard His Excellency the President publicly communicate about the matter of the roads. Some of the things that he mentioned are: 1) The dangers of excessive reliance on external financing for all the development projects, citing abrupt and disruptive donor decisions that may impede the realisation of planned projects; 2) The need for self-reliance in financing development projects; He categorised the projects into three: i) The well-done new roads, such as the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, Kampala- Gulu Highway, the oil roads in Bunyoro, and excellent roads in municipalities such as Hoima, Gulu, Masaka, to mention but a few; ii) The very important roads that were initially good but have now deteriorated, such as Mityana-Mubende-Kyenjojo, Mukono-Jinja, Ibanda-Mbarara, and Mbarara-Ishaka highways. He attributes the deterioration to under-budgeting. iii) The local government roads used to be good, but have deteriorated because of the misuse of the Shs 1.3 billion allocated for maintenance. The President has directed the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to allocate Shs 3.2 trillion required for these roads alone. The President further undertook to have the following roads worked on: i) Mityana-Mubende-Kyenjojo; ii) Ibanda-Mbarara; iii) Ishaka-Mbarara; iv) Mukono-Lugazi-Jinja; v) Mpondwe; vi) Nebbi-Arua; and vii) Ntungamo-Rukungiri. His Excellency the President also indicated that the next manifesto will indicate other planned roads. In light of this, I will request the Minister of Works and Transport to explain to the Members, and then we will open the debate based on the President’s guidance.

17686 MINISTERIAL S T ATEMENT Hi-Speed Group Co. Ltd. They will be working on those two sections of the road, and they are already working with the finance ministry on the pre-financing arrangement. I think they are finalising the financial terms with the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development. Others will start mobilising equipment to be on those two sections of the roads. The Gulu-Atiak-Nimule Road also needs attention. We are soon hiring an MTF contractor to work on it. Regarding Malaba-Jinja-Kampala-Masaka to Katuna, this is our artery, and as a ministry, we have decided to focus fully on those roads to address whatever requirements there are. We have been addressing those bad spots with our in-house team. However, as far as the Mukono- Lugazi-Jinja-Malaba Road is concerned, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) is fully committed to that road. Right now, we have called the Katonga Bridge, and it is going to concentrate on that section. They have already made the estimates for Masaka to Kampala. As they are doing the bridge, they will also be doing the bad sections as we address the Kalandazi and Lwera swamps, which they are working on now. We hope that once we get the money, we will pay and encourage Abubaker Technical Services to speed up the Busunju-Kiboga- Hoima Road. He is doing a good job, but he needs our full support to pay him in time. This is a local contractor who has proven himself that if supported, he can do good work; he has already proven this on the section we are seeing between Busunju and Kiboga, but he is supposed to complete up to Hoima, including the Kafu Bridge. We are also rehabilitating the Ssezibwa Bridge on Kayunga Road, which is already being worked on by, again, a local company called Dynaco Engineering that is now doing the remaining stages. They have already done the box culverts to take the extra water, and they can do the bridge. On the northern side of Katonga from Kabulasoke, a local contractor called Rodo Contractors Limited is building the bridge. I can discuss these efforts, and we have images of Rodo Contractors Ltd, which even the Minister of Water and Environment can confirm.

Madam Speaker, let me put that one very clearly. On the issue of the foreign-funded projects, yes, it was a precondition. When we were rationalising, we went into discussions with the funders: World Bank, African Development Bank, and Islamic Development Bank. One of the conditions they gave us was that the project implementation units needed to be retained. We have retained all the project implementation units on all the projects. That is, Busega-Mpigi; the full project unit is there. Kampala-Jinja Expressway, the full project unit is there, and all the other projects. Even Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo, the project unit, is there. Madam Speaker, we have not stopped any project implementation unit or changed these people because that was a precondition. There are other issues regarding delays and disbursements, but it is not about rationalisation.

No, they do not. Most of them stay in Kampala, here. They read the budget on the 14 th –

Thank you so much, Madam Speaker, and thank you, Minister, for the report. First, I thank you and your team that worked on Kampala-Gulu Road, especially on those potholes, which were causing several accidents, especially the head-on collisions. That was very proactive. Secondly, as we wait for the oil, the first oil, as you know, I come from the oil region. I thank, of course, the Government for the good roads. Bunyoro is one of the subregions that has the best roads because of the oil and gas. However, there is this Masindi-Biso Road. I see several trucks heavily loaded with oil-related products, struggling to go to Buliisa, because it is shorter to pass through Masindi than Hoima. Can we know the update on that road as we wait for the first oil? Thank you so much.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. It is of great interest to note that the NDP IV has a master plan that caters for the transport network in the country. If we can align it and follow with the budget, that would put Uganda to a high standard. Madam Speaker, I am one of those who monitor the road network, and I have been engaging the Minister of Works and Transport, especially on the Fort Portal-Kampala Road. He has been giving me updates, only that I got disappointed during the voting period because I had told voters that the internal system in the ministry was going to cater for Kyegegwa and Kyenjojo, which did not materialise, and so I suffered some injuries.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would also like to thank the minister and the ministry, for that matter, for maintaining the Kotido-Moroto murram road under your courtesy. However, I would like to inform and remind the minister that there is a road from Kotido, via Abim, Amuria, Kotido, Abim and Otuke, which is in a very deplorable state and yet, we are now receiving heavy rains. This is a road that is mainly used by buses from Kotido to Kampala, Soroti and Lira, but they get stuck

Yes, thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Let me correct that impression that the road is going to end in Jinja. That road, as I said, is our artery. It is the aorta of this country. It goes up to Malaba. The road is going to be joined with the rehabilitation of the road from Kamdini- Lira-Soroti-Mbale-Tororo. You can see the whole network will be linked. Remember, we are also rehabilitating the railway line from Tororo. So far, the old meter gauge has reached Soroti heading to Gulu. The railway line from Kampala to Malaba is already functional. The standard gauge will start as soon as the contractor finishes the mobilisation and setting his camps for the works to start; so we are addressing the whole country. On the issue of liabilities from Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), I agree. When you inherit, you inherit liabilities and assets. There are some liabilities we inherited. Among them was the issue of compensation of the Project

17709 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 6 AUGUST 2025 rescue centres that we need to start marking the lake and also carry out a detailed survey and update of the lake to ensure that the lanes and lines are properly marked. Land titles I have now instructed my team under the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development that they now put the land titles project by project. Identify, for example, the land titles on Kiboga Road, the land titles on the Kampala-Jinja Expressway (KJE), the land titles on Masaka-Sembabule Road, so that we can hand them back to the owners, and we will be communicating that. Luweero-Butalangu Road This road is progressing. It may be slow, but one of the challenges was, of course, land compensation. You know, some of the challenges we had, even with some of the local judges who are refusing us access to land. On that issue, they are progressing but Butalangu to Ngoma is not within this NDP, but I know that we need to connect that, and I know that we need to connect Butalangu to Kapeeka to Kituuma, but those connections are not within this NDP. However, I can assure you that Luweero to Butalangu will be finished. Madam Speaker, Kyabakuza-Matete road, we shall maintain. It was instructed that we have to do up to Mbirizi. We need to do that road because it is a shortcut to someone going to Mbarara if you go through Sembabule. But again, “omutaaka” the challenge is the funding. Thank you very much.

Hon. Atugonza is an Independent Member and I am the Whip of Independent Members. I am designating my Member. I thank you so much. [Hon. Nambeshe rose_] IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 6TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala . PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to Order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, in your communication, you were addressing a Government Chief Whip. I take this opportunity, as he seeks to obey your directive, to find out - I have seen a notice in the newspapers today announcing several NRM meetings. We are lucky to have the former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi, who is also a minister for law and order. The last time we had a major NRM activity in Kampala, one of the new NRM youth league members from the ghetto robbed people on the streets. Can we get assurance that these meetings we have seen being announced, at which you are going to display various NRM leagues - that, that league will not rob our people? Our people work in Kampala. Or should we ask them not to come to Kampala that day? Can the minister responsible for law and order assure the country that the newly created NRM league, called the ghetto youth, will not rob our people in Kampala like they did last time? Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The matter I have is related to an incident that occurred on 2 nd August. This was a tragic accident along Mityana road highway where Daystar Junior School children, about 11 of them, were seriously injured, and two died. Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Education and Sports should come to explain how trips are conducted in schools. What we know is the time of driving, the advance planning, and the age restriction. I am still wondering how a school can get nursery school children from Kampala to go for an excursion in Kasese. Nursery children? I am – (Interjections) - kindly, Members, these are facts I have in my head. I have been a professional teacher; I know what I am saying. Whether it is a P.1 to P.3 child, sending them on that journey is unprecedented. How do they determine – (Interjection) - honourable member, I have just started. Let me drive this point home.

17647 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 5 AUGUST 2025 Madam Speaker, I have observed a number of incidents. Children from different districts leave Kampala and travel late in the night. However, the rules are clear; when children go for trips, they are supposed to report back to school in time so that their parents can pick them up. What is this misconduct or mischievous activities that occur within the buses? At the end of the day, this is what we saw happening.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to thank the minister for the information and guidance to the public. Honourable minister, initially, many people erred while entering their names for national IDs. They had third names, which are not in coordination with their formal documents now. Many people are now making corrections to their national IDs, but the district NIRA offices are not able to do that. These people are sent to the main office in Kampala to do correction of their names, and yet many of them are not able to afford transport to come to Kampala. For those who can afford, because of extortion, they are not given quick services. Mine is also related to the first person who talked about the timing. How long should one take to access a national ID, after registration or application for correction of names? I have a teacher who has toiled for over one year. He went through the entire process and applied for correction of his names. Since June last year, he has not got his ID because of ping pong . They tell him to wait, come back next month, up to date. Unless we become specific with the timing when one should access a national ID, things will never go well.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I thank the chairperson of the committee who came in after I was the vice chairperson. I also had the time to visit these cities when I was the vice chairperson, carrying out the same job. However, your report is stronger than mine. Thank you very much, Hon. Abed Bwanika. The issue of land in the new cities, honourable minister, through the Speaker, must be given a lot of attention. In Fort Portal, the old district was in control of the land against the new city, and they were fighting each other. So, who takes control of land? What is the process of taking over assets between the old district and the new city? Properties in Mbarara - they were complaining. The mother district was in control of the offices within the city, while the administrators of the new city did not have where to sit. Could those assets be taken over by the new city because they are within its jurisdiction now? And what happens to the new districts? Honourable minister, concerning the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID), you are making very good roads in these new cities, even in Masaka, we have them, but what kind of contract did you sign with USMID? This is because after the construction of these roads, there must be equipment to do the routine maintenance. As we talk, Madam Speaker, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation is digging out some areas. After digging out parts of those new roads, nobody repairs them; there is no equipment in place to work on those roads after they are handed over to the Government. Places taken over from different annexed areas - in Kalungu, where I come from - Masaka was in a battle, when it came to taking over some parishes from Kalungu District - Kibisi and Kasanje. But from the time they were taken over by the city, they have not changed. There is still dust. You have put some night lights there, but they are all filled with dust. People need to see the difference, but what is happening is that you are putting strict laws in these new areas, stopping people from building the type of houses they are used to before they became part of the cities. Could we see that change take place, honourable minister? Lastly, on governance structures, we need these leaders in those other cities to resemble those in Kampala City. When you talk about the Lord Mayor of Kampala, you notice that he has an official vehicle with the number plates reading “Lord Mayor.” Then in Masaka, Mbale and other areas, the mayors are still looking like the LC V chairman of where I came from, with an old double cabin. As I enter Masaka or Mbale City and any other city, I want to feel that pinch, interest, love, beauty of Kampala and my mayor should also be in that kind of status –

The capital city - Masaka City - I am just looking at the difference between Masaka and Kampala Capital City.

Like it is with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), because as a former councillor at KCCA, this helped us so much, and it is still helping others there to manage the city better. The Ministry of Local Government seems to be overwhelmed by too much work in supervising all the local governments in this country. These are cities, and we need to see a change. We need to see something looking better like how Hon. Ssewungu said that when we go to other cities in other countries, not necessarily capital cities - when you go to Cape Town and Mombasa, you see at least some change in management, rather than when we go our cities like Masaka; it still looks like a local council or as a district.

I can forgive the MP for Kiboga because she was not in Parliament at the time, but I cannot forgive Hon. Ssewungu and Hon. Ssewanyana. For us to start debating cities means we are not appreciating the urbanisation policy of the Government. And for you to say that every city must look like Kampala or Mombasa, you are not recognising the growth trend for any urban centre. Kampala in 1923 was not the Kampala you see now. Are you in order, Hon. Ssewungu? (Laughter)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to salute the committee for the work well done. I am from Terego, but occasionally, I come to Arua City, which is one of the new cities. The areas he alluded to, especially garbage collection, are crucial for the new cities. So, it is imperative upon the nation to specifically allocate money to the new cities for their operationalisation because the influx of the population is at a very high rate. We used to run up to Kampala, but now the number of buses that travel to Kampala every other day has reduced because we have a city called Arua. We share Arua with the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. They are lucky to have a city in Uganda, and in Arua. There is also the issue of water challenges. Whatever the National Water and Sewerage Corporation had planned is so small now for the cities. There is a need to plan for water, especially by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation. Thank you so much.

17670 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT more spacious streets, you invite more cars. If you build a city and create more walking space, you are providing a comfortable space for pedestrians. If you build a city and create more space for cyclists, you are encouraging cyclists. Our forefathers here, by 1945, found it very important to invite a German architect to come here and plan Kampala. But when you look at it now, most of the suburbs of Kampala are growing as grand slums. Madam Speaker -

Madam Speaker, I need to emphasise: it is imperative that we emphasise the aspect of development planning. I believe strongly that these cities were created to alleviate pressure from Kampala City. Now, if we make the mistake of not planning for them properly, and if we make the mistake of not emphasising strict adherence to development plans, we are planning to fail as a country. It will be absurd for the young people who will come after us in 40 years from now to be raised in Uganda, which is one grand slam. It will be unfortunate. I would like to urge this House to emphasise strict adherence to physical development planning for this country’s development.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let me join honourable colleagues to appreciate the committee leadership for a very good report. I am only dismayed by something that was missed, which is relevant and applicable to the subject matter; the audit concerns of 2023. In December 2023, the then Auditor-General, Mr Muwanga John, raised a very serious concern about the operationalisation of these cities. Funds, to the tune of Shs 427 billion plus, were dispatched as a start-up fund. However, in the report, to one’s dismay, a whopping over Shs 41 billion was swept back to the Consolidated Fund. Of course, that is a justification for the lack of absorption capacity by those new cities, even when they were grappling with the challenge of constraints on finances. Three-quarters of the challenges that the cities are grappling with are compounded by insufficient funding. How on earth would they fail to utilise funds that had been dispatched for the operationalisation of the cities? Madam Speaker, there are also issues of non-disclosure of liabilities by these cities amounting to Shs 1.763 billion. This, of course, has resulted from mergers, which I know the minister is aware of. I also concur with the report that the experts are urging the Government against functionalisation or operationalisation or both, of the other five cities until the 10 have taken off. The ministry - I do not know whether it is in the report, but I think it is in one of the interactions I have had with the managers of some of these local governments, including Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). I may not concur with my good friend, Hon. Allan Ssewanyana, who was proposing that all these cities should be under a similar Act like that of Kampala Capital City Authority. That Authority, if you read the Act, is a mashed potato. In fact, the Lord Mayor and elected leaders, particularly, are up in arms to have it overhauled, not even amending it. When you read sections of the Act, just like in the Local Government Act - I have just been looking for this. Section 4, paragraph (a) says that the city shall be equivalent to a district. Can you imagine? This means that the city council shall exercise the same functions and powers that are conferred on a district within its area of jurisdiction. So, you realise that these cities would better remain as local government councils rather than being Authorities. An authority gives latitude to the powers that be to make appointments, which, in a way, infringes on the rights of the powers that are given to the people to elect their leaders. That is why you see conflicts and rifts without number within the KCCA. Madam Speaker, the issue of guidance by the ministry on asset sharing is taking too long –

17608 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME Thursday, 31 July 2025 The remarkable contribution of the Kingdom of Buganda in bettering the lives of the masses is a lesson to other traditional and cultural institutions, and we wish that all the other cultural institutions could emulate what the Buganda kingdom does. In our culture, we say, “ Ssabasajja Kabaka awangaale ”. ( Applause ) Honourable members, you recall that this House designated Members to the sectoral committees on Tuesday, 29 July 2025. In the designation of Members to the committees, Rule 196(1) stipulates thus: “The sectoral committee shall comprise not less than 20 members and not more than 40 members in a committee”. My attention has been drawn to the following committees whose numbers violate the rule: (i) Committee on Lands The Committee on Lands has 19 members, which is short of the 20 members, meaning that the NRM party or NRM Whip should designate one more Member to the committee. (ii) The Committee on Environment and Natural Resources has 42 Members, which exceeds the maximum number of 40 per committee. I, therefore, request that the two members of the committee be withdrawn. These two should be withdrawn from the NRM side. The IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 5TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.30 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala . PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17612 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME of-the-Nation Address to the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda on Thursday, 5 June 2025. The motion reads: “WHEREAS Article 101(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995, requires the President to deliver to Parliament an address on the state of the nation at the beginning of each session; AND WHEREAS His Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in compliance with Article 101(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, delivered the State-of-the-Nation Address to Parliament at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Thursday, 5 June 2025; AWARE that in his address to the nation, His Excellency, the President informed the nation that the Uganda shilling was still the most stable currency in the whole of Africa and highlighted that during the past 12 months, the Uganda shilling had appreciated by 6.1 per cent and therefore, the inflation was under control, given that Uganda experienced Africa’s second lowest inflation rate in the past decade; FURTHER AWARE that His Excellency, the President highlighted that the economy had remained strong and resilient, as evidenced by the International Monetary Fund rankings that ranked Uganda seventh amongst the fastest- growing economies in the whole world, and noting that the size of Uganda’s economy had been projected at Shs 224.9 trillion, equivalent to $60.4 billion, by the end of June 2025; RECOGNISING that His Excellency, the President informed the nation that over the last 10 years, the Government had injected over Shs 8.03 trillion in strategic wealth creation initiatives, including the capitalisation of Uganda Development Bank, the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Programme, Small Business Recovery Fund, Agricultural Credit Facility, Youth Venture Capital Fund, Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, the INVITE project, the GROW project and Uganda Development Corporation, among others, which have boosted economic performance; FURTHER RECOGNISING that His Excellency, the President, noted that the wealth- and job-creation initiatives have enabled low-income earning Ugandans to be part of the money economy, which has enabled Uganda to attain a middle-income status with a GDP per capita of $1,263; APPRECIATING that His Excellency, the President further noted that the percentage of the population still trapped in subsistence farming had changed from more than 90 per cent in 1986, to the current figure of 33 per cent; COGNISANT of His Excellency, the President’s emphasis on Government strategy to increase the size of the economy tenfold to $500 billion by 2040 and in this strategy, he highlighted a blueprint for rapidly expanding Uganda’s economy in a transformative, sustainable and inclusive manner under the four sectors below: (a) Agro-industrialisation; (b) Tourism development; (c) Mineral development, including oil and gas; and (d) Science, technology, and innovation; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that Parliament expresses gratitude to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, for his clear and concise exposition of the State-of-the-Nation Address, delivered to the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala on 5 June, 2025.” I beg to move. (Applause)

Rt Hon. Prime Minister, based on what Hon. Ayume is saying, we know most of the land belonging to the Government has been given out in a private way - in the boardrooms. We want the Committee on Lands to investigate, especially the pieces of land in Kampala. We would like the Committee on Finance, Planning and Economic Development to investigate the land that has been given out without authorisation of Parliament. Thank you.

Honourable members, once again, yesterday we asked for a report from the honourable minister on how ready we are to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN). He even promised to put up a billboard near my home, so that when I pass by, I see it. (Laughter) I can see a report. Can we upload this report? Honourable minister, you have written too much for us. We are asking for too little from you. All that Hon. Kayemba-Ssolo wants – because he is the one who raised that issue; he brought it to my office – is the visibility that we are hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). We know we have given you money, you have infrastructure. SWe thank you for the IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 4TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17581 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 30 JULY 2025 Honourable members, I would like to thank Madam Speaker for helping us in the due process. Madam Speaker, we are grateful. (Applause) In line with the host agreement, the local organising committee (LOC) has been recognised as a legal entity. This followed the ratification of the agreement by the Cabinet in accordance with Section 2(a) of the Ratification of Treaties Act, Cap 190. The LOC, established under gazette notice No.686 of 2025, is constituted of 20 members under the leadership of the honourable First Lady and the Minister of Education and Sports. It also has a fully functional secretariat as its implementing arm. Honourable colleagues, as guided by CAF and LOC, the LOC has 13 functions being performed by their respective sub-committees as follows: (i) The guest management and hospitality; (ii) Events operation; (iii) Communication and signage; (iv) Medical and anti-doping; (v) Security and safety; (vi) ICT and accreditation; (vii) Infrastructure; (viii) Legal and brand protection; (ix) Workforce and volunteers; (x) Team services; (xi) Commercial and marketing; (xii) Spectator services and funds experience; and (xiii) Finance. Madam Speaker, allow me to highlight the status of readiness for key specific deliverables under the sub-committees I am going to state below: (i) Infrastructure management. The core sports infrastructure to host the tournaments is the main stadium and training pitches. Mandela National Stadium, which has been under renovation, passed the final inspection by CAF held in July 2025. It is ready to host the matches. The key installations for match-hosting, including appropriate safety and security infrastructure, ICT, accreditation, broadcast, and media, are ready. In addition, training facilities have undergone improvements at Kyambogo University, FUFA Kadiba Stadium, Muteesa II Wankulukuku Stadium, and Kampala International School Uganda (KISU). The Mandela National Stadium, Namboole Annex, has been upgraded to meet CAF standards for CHAN and AFCON. At Kyambogo University, the works done include the construction of a standard pitch with floodlights, irrigation system, changing rooms to meet the CAF standards for CHAN and AFCON. For FUFA Kadiba Stadium, the Government has supported the federation to complete its works on the facility to cover floodlights and other remedial works. In addition, two access roads have been upgraded and the facility is ready to be used for the CHAN tournament. Muteesa II Wankulukuku has been upgraded with new changing rooms, an irrigation system, and floodlights installed, and meets the CAF standards for hosting CHAN and AFCON. I also want to inform the House that we have bought a generator to be installed at Muteesa II Stadium, which will cover that for the purpose of CHAN and AFCON. The works at Kampala International School, Uganda, provided for the upgrade of the changing rooms and improvement of the pitch. All these facilities have been evaluated by CAF and are prepared to host a training session. (ii) Workforce and volunteers. Uganda selected young, energetic, and sports- loving youth to participate in the CHAN 2024 volunteer programme. So far, at least 500 volunteers have been invited for evaluation and trained to support the 19 areas below:

17582 MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Access control, accreditation, administration, branding, events, first-aiders, general duties, ICT support, information points, language support, logistics, main venue support, media, medical, protocol, safety and security, spectator services, ticketing, and transport. (iii) Guest management and hospitality In addition to the workforce already engaged, as highlighted above, His Excellency the President offered the use of the Uganda protocol fleet of vehicles to support the transportation needs of VVIPs, VIPs, and CAF delegates for the duration of the tournament. Up to 90 SUVs were, therefore, declared as available for use in accordance with the regulation governing vehicles and assets used. These facilities have been declared as available to CAF, and the local organising committee awaits requests to be submitted by CAF from time to time. (iv) Marketing and commercials In accordance with its responsibilities, on Friday, 25 July 2025, CAF released the CHAN 2024 tournament’s pricing schedule and announced the commencement of sale to the public, including in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, the tickets for TotalEnergies CAF CHAN Pamoja 2024. The tickets are in three price range categories: (a) Ordinary tickets for Shs 10,000 per day. (b) Silver tickets for Shs 30,000 per day. (c) Premium tickets for Shs 50,000 per day. The tickets can be purchased on the internet – online only – and CAF has established a dedicated sale link for all market tickets for the co-host venues in Uganda and the sister countries. Payments for tickets are made to accredited MTN, Airtel, and Visa card suppliers who are linked to the ticket sales link stock page. In a bid to ensure publicity of the tournament, the local organising committee has put in place measures to increase public awareness about the tournament beyond billboards. This includes allocating the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Shs 1 billion only to run promotions on TV, radios, digital platforms, social media influencers, and other channels. Madam Speaker, there is a word there which is called “ mizindalo” , which I want to – maybe my shadow minister will help me translate it. Furthermore, His Excellency the President officially launched CHAN 2024 in Uganda in a very colourful public ceremony held on 25 July 2025 at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The official launch enhanced the publicity of CHAN 2024 and the ongoing games and events at the main event locations at Namboole. (v) Communication and signage In accordance with its responsibilities, CAF procured a service firm to provide the official branding tools as well as place signage in selected areas. The LOC found it necessary to increase the visibility of the tournament and improve public engagement. LOC operations have, therefore, necessitated extending the official signage to selected locations in Kampala and the metropolitan areas. The Government agencies and ministry buildings and commercial centres/points. We have engaged the service provider to put up billboards and street-pole banners along 21 selected roads in the city. In addition, LOC conducts a media briefing once a week. The frequency will be increased to twice a week and daily once the tournament commences on 2 August 2025. (vi) Team services Uganda has received confirmation of the participation of Group C teams. As of 29 July 2025, the national team of the Republic of Niger arrived in Uganda and has set camp. Our own national team, the Uganda Cranes, is in camp as well and training for the tournament.

17593 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 30 JULY 2025 that he used all that money to pay debts, suppliers, and right now needs another Shs 30 billion, which is not in the budget; and e) Kampala-Jinja Highway. We had to use the internal mechanism of the Internal Capacity unit of the Ministry of Works and Transport to intervene, and that is why you see works going on in an attempt to put some sanity on the road. The following projects are progressing, but at a reduced rate due to delayed payments or incomplete land acquisition, which is another nightmare. a) Kira-Kasangati-Matugga. There are a number of properties, which we have not yet paid for. b) Kisubi-Nakawuka-Nateete, Nakawuka- Mawagulu-Nanziga, Nakawuka-Kasanje- Mpigi, Kasanje-Buwaya and Entebbe- Nakiwogo. This is one project within that area but the challenge is mainly land acquisition because the contractor agreed to do a pre-financing arrangement, which was agreed upon with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development for two years, but he needs land for him to work.

17595 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 30 JULY 2025 we have been urging that for every $10 we invest in construction, we should invest $3 in maintenance. It has not worked, but we have made this very clear to the finance ministry. Impact on unpaved roads and routine maintenance The national gravel road network, spanning over 14,000 kilometres, is also facing significant pressure due to poor funding and recurring climate shocks. The current condition assessment indicates that 48 per cent of these roads is in good condition, 35 per cent in fair condition, and 17 per cent in poor condition. Maintenance efforts are hampered by: a) Unreliable and inadequate risk for grading and spot improvements; b) Depletion of gravel materials in highly demanded districts; and c) Infrastructure degradation due to flooding, landslides, and prolonged wet seasons. The Ministry’s capacity to respond to routine maintenance demands has been overstretched. Without predictable funding and mechanisation support, rural access and road connectivity are likely to deteriorate further. Strategic recommendations and priority actions Madam Speaker, in light of the impacts outlined above, the ministry proposes the following measures to safeguard the value of the ongoing investment, restore the project’s momentum, and prevent further deterioration of the road network. 1. Prioritise and ring-fence funding for periodical maintenance The most economically prudent intervention is to protect roads still in maintainable condition. Periodic maintenance should be prioritised and ring-fenced in this financial year to prevent 1,933 kilometres from degrading into high- cost rehabilitation or reconstruction categories. This alone could avert a fiscal loss of Shs 850 billion. 2. Clear certified arrears to enable resumption of works The ministry recommends that a substantial portion of the Shs 1.071 trillion in arrears be cleared early enough in the financial year to: a) Prevent further contractor demobilisation; b) Avert accumulation of commercial interest; c) Avoid prolongation costs arising from claims by contractors; d) Restore momentum on suspended or slowed-down sites. Priority should be placed on fully suspended Government of Uganda-funded projects such as Mityana-Mubende, Kampala-Jinja, Busega-Mpigi Expressway, among others. 3. Allocate a dedicated fund for land acquisition On this matter, Madam Speaker, we have resolved that we are not going to accept any project to be directed to commence a project if the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has not provided money for land acquisition going forward, because land acquisition is a recurring constraint affecting both donor and Government-funded projects. Therefore, we need an immediate allocation of about Shs 843 billion in this financial year. This would enable us to access the sites and avoid breach of contract obligations. Projects under disbursement pressure from development partners must be prioritised to protect Uganda’s credibility. Assurance and conclusion Madam Speaker, our road network remains a critical national asset that underpins economic growth, regional integration - fortunately or unfortunately, we are in the centre of the region and our network not only serves Uganda, it also serves our neighbours - and the delivery of services. Its total replacement value is estimated at Shs 37.4 trillion.

Honourable minister, yesterday, I talked about the road from Mbarara to Bushenyi. It is basically potholes. As we wait for money to work on the whole road, why don’t you work on those small potholes so that the road is usable, the way you are working on Kampala-Jinja Road?

Honourable minister, I have not said you should drag him, but it is your responsibility under Rule 16 of the Rules of Procedure. Honourable members, in the public gallery, we have pupils and teachers from New Hope Junior School, Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipality. They are represented by Hon. Naluyima and Hon. David Sserukenya. Where are they? You are welcome. Please stand up and we see you. Welcome. Join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Still in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students from Islamic University in Uganda, Kampala Campus, Makindye Division. They are represented by Hon. Derrick Nyeko and Hon. Shamim Malende. Where are you? Welcome. Thank you for coming. In the public gallery, we also have pupils and teachers from Goshen Nursery and Primary School from Soroto West Division. They are represented by Hon. Jonathan Ebwalu and Hon. Adeke Ebaju. Where are you? Soroto West. You are welcome. Thank you for coming all the way. They are here to observe the proceedings. Thank you very much. Yes? What is burning?

17547 Tuesday, 29 July 2025 During this season, I have been able to move throughout the country, and I found out that the roads are in a sorry state, especially after these rains. You find that some roads are impassable. I went to Hoima, and they were working on the road since the takeover of UNRA, but the dust on the road, you cannot even see a car in front of you. That will cause accidents. Most of the roads that were being worked on have been abandoned. We may need to have a report from the Ministry of Works and Transport. (Applause) The issue has always been that we do not have money. You find that Kampala-Hoima Road is terrible, Kampala- Jinja Road is terrible, Mityana-Mubende Road, Moroto Road, Kafu – all those roads. We would like to understand what is happening. Masaka Road - even connecting from Mbarara to Sheema, the road is bad. You wonder what is happening. We allocate money but the roads are not being worked on. Where is the money going to? Therefore, we need a statement from the Government on what is happening with the roads. The accidents that are happening – You find that there is a truck that maybe has a mechanical problem, parked with no signs informing road users of an accident or a parked truck, and that causes accideSnts. We need to handle that to avoid the accidents that are happening in the country, because we are losing a lot of people. Honourable members, as you may be aware, Uganda, alongside Tanzania and Kenya, IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 3RD SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Honourable minister, we are not asking for too much. The fact is that this Parliament has a stake in whatever is happening. As representatives of the people, we want the public to know that we shall have a tournament in this country. This game is very important for a country, and since our team is playing first, can we let the fans know that we will have a game on such a date? You will find an empty stadium even if you do not charge anybody. People will not go because they were not informed. We are requesting you to hype up your game. We need a commitment from you that by tomorrow, we want everybody in Kampala to know that there is a CAF tournament.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. We have a bridge which is in a very sorry state; from Kampala Highway to Hoima and that is, Kafu Bridge. This bridge has a very deep hole and you can see the water flowing.

17560 DESIGNATION OF MEMBERS TO SECTORAL COMMITTES A couple of months ago, we were here talking about the shambolic state of our roads in Kampala and different parts of the country. Some honourable colleagues said we were politicising these matters but the reality is that our roads are in a mess. During our Alternative Ministerial Policy Statement presentations, specifically the one on roads, we said that “Let us inject more money to fix and maintain our roads.” That has got to be done. Madam Speaker, while some roads are in a bad state, there are those that are totally impassable. For some districts in this country, one cannot easily cross over to another. Where there is meant to be a bridge, it broke down a long time ago, and so, there is a total disconnect between one district and another. We need to fix these issues. When we talk about them, honourable colleagues, stop saying this is politics. It is not because we are all affected. We hope that the Government will wake up to the reality to fix these issues. Madam Speaker, I want to again join you in – I do not know whether to congratulate honourable colleagues who went through their processes successfully. The reason is that we are waiting for them around the corner – (Laughter)- enjoy that win while it lasts because we are surely waiting for you. I commiserate with those who did not make it. May the good Lord strengthen you. It is important for our electoral processes, first of all, to be violence-free. We have been talking about honourable colleagues that survived violence like Hon. Ssekikubo and others; the Prime Minister was slapped, punched or both but at least she is alive. Several people died during these National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries in various districts and we are yet to see justice prevail. Many times, people are killed, and we easily move on. This has got to stop. I condemn this. Even though those who died are NRM supporters, they are Ugandans. We hope that whoever participated in these killings gets to be brought to book. If that does not happen, we are going to see a repeat or even worse, in the upcoming general elections; so, action has got to be taken. Those who killed, now that it was just during the NRM primaries, on a grand scale, it is probably going to be worse. We have got to condemn this, and action has to be taken. We have said repeatedly that it is important for our democratic processes to exude integrity. Some honourable colleagues laugh at those issues. They say, “You, the Opposition people, each time you talk about this, it is because you are always losing.” I saw powerful people like ministers crying, saying they had been rigged out. These are things that we have always talked about. Of course, now it is happening in your home, but that is what happens nationally. We need to work towards electoral process integrity. We are waiting for the regulations coming from the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, but even if we were to follow our current jurisprudence as it is, to the letter, our laws do not allow, for example, for the military to get involved in electoral processes. However, the military keeps getting involved at every turn. We saw what happened in the Kawempe by-elections. That has got to stop. It does not have to wait for the amendment of a certain law or whatever. It is already a law in place. Can we execute it that way? Honourable colleagues on this side, whenever we talk about these things, some of you say, “Well, the Opposition, you are crying as usual”, but that is what happens. When a boat is sinking, no one in it is safe. That is what is happening now. You need to join us and say we need to have integrity in our – all of us have to speak in unison. We need to have integrity in our democratic processes. When it happens to us, and you laugh about it, it will come. When this boat is sinking, regardless of where you are seated – I am told that in these boat cruises, there is first class, business, and economy. Even if you are in the business or first class of that sinking boat, you will sink – (Interruption) The minister is asking for clarification. With the Speaker’s permission, I can take it. [Mr Ssenyonyi] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Similar to what you have just said, especially the greater Kampala Metropolitan area roads, we passed a loan but many people are still suffering. You can see a lot is really stagnant. Could we also get a report from the minister, as he comes tomorrow, on what is happening to all those roads, which got loans yet they are not being worked on?

17505 Thursday, 12 June 2025 Grounds, to be the precincts of Parliament for the above mentioned purpose.” Given under my hand at Parliament House, Kampala, this 12 th Day of June 2025. Anita Annet Among Speaker of Parliament COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady, Mama Janet Kataaha Museveni, who also doubles as the Minister of Education and Sports; Her Excellency, the Vice-President, Major (Rtd) Alupo Jessica; His Lordship, Chief Justice, Hon. Chigamoy Alfonse Owiny-Dollo; Rt Hon. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Thomas Tayebwa; Rt Hon. Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business, together with your deputies; The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi; Cabinet ministers and ministers of state; Your Excellencies, the High Commissioners, Ambassadors and members of the Diplomatic Corps; Honourable Members of Parliament of Uganda and the East African Legislative Assembly; The Vice-Chairman of the National Resistance Movement party, Al Hajji Moses Kigongo; Members of the Central Executive Committee of the NRM Party; The Secretary-General of the National Resistance Movement, Hon. Richard Todwong; The former national leaders present; The traditional and cultural leaders present; The religious leaders who are present here; The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Hon. Betty Olive Namisango IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 2ND SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.12 p.m. at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala. (The National Anthem.) (The East African Community Anthem.) PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. PROCLAMATION

17523 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 12 JNUE 2025 time for processing driving licences to 45 minutes in Kampala and 48 hours in upcountry stations, from a period of one month. To support Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), the Government has licensed over 50 companies that have created over 10,000 jobs mainly for the youth that provide online services internationally. Madam Speaker, with regard to the creative arts, the Government provided Shs 10 billion to the creative arts industry. This was to support the artists to recover from the effects of COVID-19, and create a revolving fund to support young talents to create wealth and jobs. Madam Speaker, I have provided Shs 835.98 billion for Science, Technology and Innovation, including ICT and the Creative Arts Industry. Of this amount, Shs 388.23 billion is for STI, Shs 381.75 billion is for ICT and digitalisation, and Shs 66 billion for the creative arts. Madam Speaker, these funds will be utilised for: i. establishing a hi-tech city to support development of technologies and innovations; ii. taking STI products to the market, especially Kiira motor vehicles, coffee, Dei BioPharma drugs and vaccines, and banana products; iii. additional investment in research and development and innovation; iv. increasing coverage, reliability, and affordability of Internet; v. enhancing digitisation of Government services and e-commerce; vi. promoting BPO for job creation; vii. acquiring a home for creative artists for their productions and innovations; viii. fast-tracking the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act to protect intellectual property and artistic works; and ix. further capitalisation of the revolving fund for artists with an additional Shs 18 billion, bringing it to a total of Shs 23 billion. Infrastructure Development Madam Speaker, this priority area includes both transport and energy infrastructure. During this Financial Year 2024/2025, some of the following achievements were realised: Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services Madam Speaker, the road network that is tarmacked now stands at 6,287.6 kilometres, representing about 30 per cent of the national road network, compared to 3,112 kilometres in Financial Year 2010/11. With this improved road network, the travel time, for example, from Malaba to Kisoro by road, reduced from 48 hours (two days) to about 10 hours. This will further improve with completion of the Kampala-Jinja and Busega- Mpigi Expressways. Uganda is now connected by tarmac roads at all its major international border points, from the South Sudan border (Kitgum, Nimule and Oraba) in Acholi and West Nile to the southern border of Tanzania (Mutukula), Rwanda (Mirama Hills, Katuna and Cyanika) and the Congo border (Bunagana) and from the Kenya border (Lwakhakha, Malaba and Busia) to the Congo border (Mpondwe, Busuunga, and Kaisotonya) in the West. Madam Speaker, despite the challenges faced in the road sector this financial year, we continued to make progress as follows: i. Rehabilitated a total of 125 kilometres on several ongoing projects; ii. Upgraded over 100 kilometres of roads to paved bituminous standards on several ongoing projects; iii. The government fully disbursed Shs 579 billion which was used for maintenance of National, District, Urban and Community Access Roads (DUCAR); THE TAX PROCEDURES CODE (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025

17524 BUDGET SPEECH iv. The government is revamping the road and drainage infrastructure within the entire Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), to the extent that the entire city is now a construction site. Banange bebale. A total of Shs 1.4 trillion has been dedicated to improving roads and drainage within GKMA. To deal with traffic congestion arising out of the gridlock generated by roundabouts, all major junctions are being improved and signalled with traffic lights. The Kampala Flyover and Road Upgrading Project has been completed. v. Construction of 10 bridges is ongoing at an average of 74.7 per cent progress. Madam Speaker, next financial year, the Government has significantly increased the budget for road infrastructure development. I have allocated an additional Shs 790 billion, bringing the total budget for roads to Shs 4.28 trillion. The following will be prioritised next financial year: 1. Start construction and complete ongoing works for road projects as highlighted by His Excellency the President in his State-of- the-Nation Address. In addition, the roads which had been left out to be prioritised are: Puranga-Acholibur (65 kilometres); Kampala- Gayaza-Kalagi (33 kilometres); Lugazi- Buikwe-Kiyindi (28 kilometres); Kabwohe- Bwizibwera-Nyakambu-Nsika-Nyakabirizi (92.2 kilometres); Kisubi-Nakawuka-Natete- Kasanje-Mpigi-Mawugulu-Nanziga-Maya- Buwaya (71 kilometres); Busega-Mpigi (10 kilometres); Najjanankumbi-Busabala (11 kilometres); Lusalira-Nkonge-Lumegere- Sembabule (97 kilometres); Karugutu-Ntoroko (50 kilometres); Kabale-Lake Bunyonyi (15.1 kilometres), Kisoro-Nkuringo-Lubugiri-Muko (70 kilometres); Laropi-Moyo-Afoji (39 kilometres), including a bridge at Laropi, Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo (105 kilometres); Namagumba-Budadiri-Nalugugu (33 kilometres); Tororo-Busia (25 kilometres); Katuna-Muko-Kamuganguzi (104 kilometres); Moroto-Lokitanyala (42 kilometres); Hamurwa-Kerere-Kanungu (47 kilometres); Lyantonde-Kashagama-Nyabitanga-Ntusi road (57.7 kilometres); Isingiro-Rugaaga- Mutukula-Ngarama-Kashumba-Kasese on the border with Tanzania (164 kilometres) – I hope my friends who were talking to me yesterday, I have satisfied you. Masindi Bridge; and Karuma Bridge. 2. Start construction and complete ongoing works for bridges as highlighted by His Excellency the President in his State-of- the-Nation Address. 3. Commence implementation of the Kampala- Jinja Expressway through a Public-Private Partnership framework. 4. Prioritise maintenance of the core national road transport network and DUCAR. Railway Transport Madam Speaker, in November 2024, His Excellency the President launched construction of the 272-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Malaba to Kampala. The SGR is a strategic investment for our country. It will cut cargo transport cost by half from the current $120 per ton, and reduce transit time from Mombasa to Kampala from seven days to one day, turning Uganda into a land-linked country as opposed to being landlocked. The initial works for the construction of the SGR have started. Madam Speaker, Government has completed the refurbishment and commissioning of the Mukono-Kampala Metre Gauge Railway line. In addition, rehabilitation of the 375 kilometres of the Tororo to Gulu Metre Gauge Railway will be completed by February 2026. Madam Speaker, next financial year, priority interventions will include completing the rehabilitation of the Tororo-Gulu Metre Gauge Railway line; refurbishment of the Mukono-Jinja Metre Gauge Railway line; and construction of the Standard Gauge Railway from Kampala to Malaba.

17527 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 12 JNUE 2025 iv) Registered a 4.1 per cent decrease in the volume of crime from 228,074 cases reported in 2023 to 218,715 cases in 2024 and a subsequent decline in the crime rate from 516 to 476 per 100,000 persons; v) Commenced mass enrolment of Ugandans on 27 May 2025 to acquire National Identity Cards, with a target of registering 17.2 million unregistered persons and renewing 15.8 million expired cards. Apart from securing elections and aiding our national security, the National ID has contributed to improved efficiency in accessing public services, broadened financial inclusion, eased travel within the EAC and stamped out fraud arising from identification; vi) Improved efficiency in the delivery of citizenship and immigration control services. The average turnaround time for processing of ordinary passports has reduced to four from 14 days. Beebale ; vii) The Government has started to roll out the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System to improve security. To date, 26,818 vehicles and 62,512 motorcycles have been registered. In addition, the Government has invested in security cameras to improve tracking of crime in Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and on major highways. The Government has also started implementing regulations for speed limits using the Express Penalty System to reduce fatalities on roads. This is the way to go. If there is any problem with the rates, they will be reviewed, but the penalty will stay to save the lives of Ugandans; viii) The Uganda Prisons is transforming from a consumptive to a productive force. This has contributed to food security and reduced the budget required to look after inmates. In addition, the Prisons Service contributed to the growth of the local textile industry through increased production of cotton. This financial year, the Service produced 1,733 metric tons of maize seed, 305,485 kilogrammes of cotton for the local textile industries and 12,290 metric tons of grain to contribute to prisoners’ feeding requirements; ix) The Government was effectively represented in courts, tribunals and commissions. Out of 393 cases concluded, the Government won 285, which is 72.5 per cent and saved Shs 548 billion that would have otherwise been paid as costs; x) The Government implemented the NRM Manifesto commitment on cattle compensation in the Acholi, Lango and Teso subregions. Since Financial Year 2021/22, a total of Shs 142.9 billion has been paid to 53,592 claimants. I have provided Shs 80 billion next financial year to pay the remaining claimants. In addition, I have provided Shs 15 billion for ex-gratia ( akasiimo ) of the Luweero war victims. Madam Speaker, next financial year, I have provided Shs 9.9 trillion for: 1. Consolidating Uganda’s security through continued modernisation and professionalisation of the security agencies; 2. Improving the welfare of the security forces; 3. Undertaking general elections in 2026, which are just around the corner; 4. Increasing access to justice, law and order services; and 5. Strengthening immigration and border security. The Government is stepping up the fight against corruption. We are automating all Government processes to reduce human interaction and ensure traceability, investing in more performance and forensic audits and enforcing accountability. I think I should reread this paragraph: The Government is stepping up the fight against corruption. We are automating all Government processes to reduce human interaction and ensure traceability, investing in more performance and forensic audits and enforcing accountability.

17537 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 12 JNUE 2025 did not want our children to be homosexuals – We did not say other people’s children. Some of our friends who had given us market access took us off the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) list. Imagine how you can rely on such a person for business. Today, you trade with him; tomorrow, he stops you because of your internal policy, not anything affecting him. On the above question, when we studied the African tribes, including my own, the Banyankole- Bahororo, we discovered that intra-tribal trade was either limited or completely absent. Why? It is because these communities sometimes produce similar products. The Banyankole-Bahororo, for instance, all have milk, beef, bananas, etc. A does not buy from B, and vice versa. Therefore, identity, being one tribe, does not necessarily solve the problem of prosperity. Happily, we discovered a real solution, and this was Uganda, a multi-tribal unit, which was already there. You had the Banyankole-Bahororo there, but you also had other people. Even in the colonial times of the small enclave economy, the business complementarities among the tribes were already coming up. I was able to pay for education on account of two categories of actors: Category one was Amos Kaguta, my father, who had cattle which he inherited from his ancestors. Hence, those cattle were “ enshuji”, the cattle of “ Jajja”, inherited from ancestors. He could, therefore, sell some of them and pay my school fees. The problem, however, was that there was neither a single Munyankole-Muhororo cattle trader at that time nor was there a developed beef market in the area of Ntungamo. Do you people know where Ntungamo is? You may not find it on the Uganda map. At that time, Ntungamo did not have cattle traders or a meat market. That was how the second category of rescuers came in; the people who rescued me to go to school. These were two Baganda. One of them called Walusimbi Mpanga, and another one called Bukyenya. The Banyankole would call him “Bukyenya”, but the Baganda would call him “Bukenya.” Bukyenya had a grandson who is a big fellow now in the Government. I think he is in the Equal Opportunities Commission. If that Munyankole- Muganda is here, he should come and they see how Banyankole-Baganda look like. If that boy is here, let him come and they will see him. Then there was also a white man, Shea. Walusimbi bought cattle for the Kampala beef market and Bukyenya for the Mbarara market, and Shea for the Kilembe Copper Mines workforce. It was these three people who supported my education. Walusimbi bought the cows to be sold in Kampala. Bukyenya bought and took to the small Mbarara market. Shea would take the cows to Kilembe market. Even at that time, the complementarity among the tribes was becoming clear. Even in the pre-colonial times, the inter-zones trade had become clear. Textiles, “ emyienda ”, were coming from the coast in Zanzibar. The glass beads, “enkwanzi”, were from the same source, and so were the guns. Ivory, “emino ”, however, was coming from the interior of the African continent and so were salt, backcloth, hoes, etc. It is this historical mission of the need for prosperity that led us to discover the first ideological principle of the NRM movement – as the minister was saying; patriotism – love Uganda. Why? It is because you need it for your prosperity, as a market, among other advantages. However, learning from the history of other countries and also seeing what is happening in Uganda once it settled down and started recovering, we discovered that the internal market is not enough. As we speak today, Uganda has got a surplus of milk, maize, bananas, beef, sugar, cement, steel products of certain types, etc., like the minister told you. Where do we sell all of these? It was during this period that the NRM asked the Ugandans the following questions: One, have you heard of East Africa?

17544 BUDGET SPEECH are there – the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is there but is quiet, the District Internal Security Officer (DISO) is there, the Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs) are there – I will go for them and they will have to answer. (Applause) If the Shs 1.3 billion is not enough, tell us, because the feeder roads are very crucial. I found out that in the case of Bunyangabu, they were mixing up issues: The Shs 1.3 billion is to maintain the roads which are already made, but they were saying, “Oh, we want to make bridges across swamps.” No, you cannot do that with the Shs 1.3 billion. That is new money for a new project. Maintain the present roads the way they are, so that you have the murram there and gravel, they are compacted, drainage – this is a must. I will check and if I find – there will be casualties among the Local Government people there, even the Resident District Commissioners (RDCs). Why should this be the case when all these people are there? Now for the voters – that is why you need to vote for people who care, not the ones who give you money. On the issue of the implementation, so much money has already been availed for so many roads; I have a whole list here. Masaka-Mutukula, the money is there. The money for Lusalira-Kasambya- Nkonge-Lumegere. Roads like; Moyo-Afoji, Katuna-Muko-Kamuganguzi, Kumi-Ngora- Serere-Kagwara, Kampala-Malaba metre gauge, Kitgum-Kidepo, Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area roads. The MPs should follow up on this money which is already provided. I have a long list here of the money already provided, some of it from loans – even for education and health – all this money is here. Now, finally, you get misinformation. For instance, the other day I was in Lyantonde and some of the Luweero veterans were talking about some issues but when I checked, we had already provided Shs 218 billion or something like that for the a kasiimo and the a kasiimo was supposed to be Shs 5 million for each of the leaders and Shs 1 million for supporters. Now, Shs 218 billion, which has already been provided, is too much money. So, what happened? Who took this money? And yet I heard some of them were complaining – we are going to dig up the whole thing. Then you get the cattle compensation for Teso, Lango, Acholi. We have already spent Shs 200 billion on that. Who got this money? And we have now budgeted for another Shs 80 billion. You heard it being read here. So, you, the leaders should follow up on this money. Of course, I will also follow up now that I am involved. Then, you have things like the stadiums. Quite a bit of money has been sent to some of these stadiums. So, the National Council of Sports needs to explain to us. I hear some money has gone to stadiums like Kakyeka – a number of them, to do this and that. Others are going to be done massively, like Akii-Bua et cetera. So, the National Council of Sports should also come and brief Mama about all this money. Finally, I saw some issue about the digital number plates of vehicles – about fines, fines, fines – that people are being fined for I-do-not-know-what. But the issue about the number plates is not fines but rather anti-crime. I would like my people to put on the projector a picture I saw in today’s newspaper – put that picture, if you have it. (A photo was displayed on the screen.)

17480 ADDRESS ON THE STATE OF THE NATION Thursday, 5 June 2025 Grounds to be the precincts of Parliament for the above-mentioned purpose. Given under my hand at Parliament House, Kampala on the 5 th day of June 2025. Anita Annet Among (MP), Speaker of Parliament of Uganda.” COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Kataaha Museveni; Her Excellency, the Vice President, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel; the Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda; His Lordship the Deputy Chief Justice, Dr Flavian Zeija, who is also here to represent the Chief Justice; the honourable visiting Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Africa and their representatives. We have the; 1. Rt Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament of Ghana and the Chairperson of the Conference of Speakers of African Union Legislatures (COSPAR). Kindly rise and wave to us. 2. Rt Hon. Vital Kamerhe, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Join me in welcoming our guests. 3. Rt Hon. Sinimbo Muha Lukas, Chairperson of the National Council of IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FIFTH SESSION - 1ST SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.13 p.m. at Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. (The National Anthem.) (The East African Community Anthem.) PROCLAMATION

17497 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 5 JUNE 2025 Ssembabule-Mateete-Mbiriizi with a branch to Kibinge-Kyabakuza; Myanzi-Kasanda-Kiboga – abantu bange abe Kassanda akalulu mukatereeze; Kikagate Kitwe-Mirama Hill – Mama was about to kill me on this one here. Kati mponye; Kabiingo-Rugaaga-Magabi-Rakai; Luweero-Butalangwa-Ngoma-Bulyamusenyi- Masindi; Kayunga-Bbale-Galiraya. I am going to get additional money for these roads because we have been talking about them for a long time. These will be in addition to the completion of the following roads: 92km Muyembe- Nakapiripirit and 25 kilometres of service roads; 21km Kira-Matugga Road and improvement of five junctions, 26 kilometres of Tororo-Busia Road and Mayuge and Busia Town Roads, 6.6 kilometres of Kawuku-Bwerenga Road, the 100-kilometre Apac-Lira-Puranga road – these are already being worked on. They are going to be finished – and 1.6 kilometres to Namugonde-Bugiri fuel tank reservoir. The roads for maintenance or reconstruction include – 1. Kampala-Jinja Highway – 72 kilometres; 2. Busunju-Kiboga-Hoima – 145 kilometres; 3. Mityana-Mubende Road – 86 kilometres; and Mubende-Kyenjojo Road, 95 kilometres; 4. Mityana Town roads – 14 kilometres – ab’eMityana mutereze akalulu banange. Buno obuli eyo tebulina kyebukola, butabula. Muleta obusajjasajja – 5. Alwii-Nebbi Road – 33 kilometres – this is in West Nile - Pakwach and Nebbi Town roads; 6. Olwiyo-Pakwach Road – 62 kilometres; 7. Matugga-Semuto-Kapeeka – 41 kilome - tres – (Applause) Waliyo akasajja eyo e’Nakaseke. Abantu bange, mutereze ebigambo ebyo, obusajja obwo bugende bukole ebirala. 8. Tororo-Mbale-Soroti. This is a long one. 9. Soroti-Dokolo-Lira-Kamdini Road – 189 kilometres. These are ongoing already. 10. Karuma-Olwiyo – 43 kilometres; 11. Masaka-Kyotera-Mutukula Road – 89 kilometres; 12. Nyendo-Villa Maria Road – 11 kilometres; 13. Access Roads – 7 kilometres and rehabilitation of 166 kilometres equivalent of national roads that have reached their service life. What they call “service life” is zikadiye . The strategic bridges to be prioritised – there is a road in Mpigi, Kasanje – aka’town akalala bakayita batya? Kisubi. Waliwo aka town eyo munda akalala; Nakawuka. Elyo sirilabye wano. Tulina okuriteekako nalyo. Naye abantu batereze obululu banange. The strategic bridges - so I will have to add that road. I thought we had started on it. The strategic bridges to be prioritised in the next financial year include the Sezibwa Bridge along Kalagi-Kayunga Road, Katonga Bridge, Lwera Swamp, and Kalandazi Swamp. Electricity In 1986, the whole country had only one hydropower plant; Nalubaale, formerly called Owen Falls Dam, built by the British in 1954, and commissioned by our late auntie, Queen Elizabeth, with the maximum capacity of 150 megawatts of hydroelectricity. There are now four large hydropower plants at Nalubaale, Kiira, Isimba and Karuma, with a combined generation capacity of 1,163 megawatts. Other sources such as Kigwabya and XsaboKonge Solar Power in Mubende have added another 888 megawatts. This brings the total installed electricity generation capacity to 2,052 megawatts. However, given the growing electricity demand arising from the new manufacturers, this is very inadequate and the available capacity will run out in about five years from now. When people talk of surplus, there is no surplus. It will very soon be overtaken.

17501 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 5 JUNE 2025 the 6 th of May? “ Oba mulina pictures awo, simanyi”. Obufananyi webuli? Bwebubaawo nabwo mubutekeko.” After that exercise, we identified that the members who were on the register were 18.5 million NRM members, above the age of 18 years, and we elected the 30 NRM leaders per village. I was present at Rwakitura village meeting, but I did not vote in my Rwakitura village. Why? A leader should not take sides in the structures below him or her. He or she should let the people elect the ones they prefer. Whether you like them or not, let the people elect, because you are not the one electing; it is them. He or she should let the people elect the ones they prefer and work with them as long as they are NRM. “Nze sifaayo gwemunsidikidde. Kyentunulako kye kyambalo kyayambadde ”. When you send me a person, I look at the way he or she is dressed. If she has a bad dress, then I am not happy. You remember the other dresses? Subsequently, however, I started hearing stories that some of our leaders were taking sides in the election of the structures above the village. We are studying this information and I will give my guidance in the coming weeks. The NRM members should stay calm. Whatever mistakes happened, happened here in Uganda. They did not happen in Iceland. They did not happen far away; they are here. We shall unearth them. They did not happen in any other country where we have no authority. Get the facts and give them to the NRM administrative secretaries at the district or the NRM Secretariat in Kampala in writing with illustrations of the information. The first economic growth factor I talked about in the economy is on account of four factors. These are the correct philosophical, ideological, and strategic positions of the NRM, as already pointed out, that is number one. Number two, the NRA/UPDF that liberated the country and has ensured peace ever since. Number three, the wealth creators in the four sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT. And number four, the responsible political actors in the NRM and other groups that have contributed to harmony. These are the four that have enabled us to come up. Number one, our correct stand on philosophy, ideology, and strategy. I do not have time to elaborate on that but we have talked about it before. Number two, the armed forces; UPDF/ NRA for liberating the country and maintaining peace. Number three, the wealth creators; the farmers, the manufacturers, the owners of the services, the ICT. This is why we are strong; because of the wealth they create. And number four, the political actors who are positive and support this. Therefore, the careerists who always think of themselves should check themselves. They should not spoil the efforts of the patriots. Here, I do not have to talk about the negative Opposition elements that work for foreign interests and the parasitic local interests. Those have failed to block our progress. It is the internal mistakes that must be corrected. Finally, I want to reaffirm the commitment of the NRM Government to ensuring that Uganda remains stable and transforms into a modern, prosperous country. I wish all Ugandans a peaceful election season. In the coming Session of Parliament, the Government will present to you, for consideration the following Bills: They are here. Let me see. “Biliwano, kambisome ”. Kaguta paid my school fees. (Laughter) The Bills are: 1. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development – the Building Substances Bill, 2022; 2. Information and Communication Bill, 2023; 3. The Magistrates’ Courts Bill, 2025;

17453 Thursday, 29 May 2025 forms of severance packages for the staff that were affected. Notably, these institutions that we are talking about are institutions like Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) and Uganda Road Fund. However, to date, the money has not been paid to the people who were retired out of RAPEX and this House passed Shs 61 billion for these people to be paid and because these people have not been paid, they have ended up going to court. We want the Government to make a follow-up on this payment and ensure that these people are paid for the work they did. Since we already allocated money for that and nothing has taken place – and one of the reasons for rationalisation was not to make the people disadvantaged. These people have been working for this country, and we ought to pay them for what they have been doing. Therefore, Government Chief Whip, you need to make a follow-up on that with the Minister of Public Service and ensure that these people are paid. Honourable members, the Parliamentary Pension Scheme will hold a member-centred seminar for Members of Parliament on Wednesday, 11 June 2025, in the Parliament Conference Hall, starting at 9.00 a.m., and you are accordingly notified and requested to attend. That is your scheme. Honourable members, allow me to invoke Rule 26(1) of the Rules of Procedure to vary the Order Paper to accommodate some urgent issues. The first is an urgent loan request by IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 35TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Honourable members, I notice that none of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Members are in the House. First of all, they are breaching the rules by not always reporting on what is being discussed in the Pan- African Parliament. Therefore, I will require a written explanation as to why they are not here and are not submitting their reports to the House. Government Chief Whip and LOP, we need an explanation from your Members. (IV) REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS ON OVERSIGHT VISITS TO: A) KITEEZI LANDFILL; (B) KIRYANDONGO DISTRICT, TO ASCERTAIN THE STATUS OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PEOPLE (IDPS) FROM BUDUDA; (C) THE CITY ABATTOIR; (D) THE STATUS OF MARKETS IN KAMPALA IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 35 OF THE RULES OF PROCEDURE.

17458 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Finally, I would like to lay on the Table a report of the Committee on Presidential Affairs on the Oversight Visit to Assess the Status of Markets in Kampala. Madam Speaker, I will start with a brief report on the Kiteezi Landfill. In response to the tragic collapse of the Kiteezi Landfill on August 10 2024, which resulted in the loss of over 23 lives, the Committee on Presidential Affairs conducted an oversight visit to assess the circumstances leading to the disaster, evaluate the current state of waste management, and recommend actionable measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. Madam Speaker, the Kiteezi Landfill was established in 1996 and is located in both Kampala and Wakiso Districts. The landfill has been a primary waste disposal site for Kampala, receiving approximately 2.5 million tons of waste every day. Despite reaching its capacity as early as 2012, the landfill continued operations without significant upgrades or expansion, hence leading to environmental degradation and health hazards for the surrounding communities. Key findings The hazard risk and vulnerability assessment identified 505 households at high risk, including 81 households submerged by floods caused by the landfills disaster as a secondary impact of the collapse. Madam Speaker, only 35 dead bodies were exhumed and verified, but 29 families received condolence funds, indicating an urgency to ensure that all affected families receive the promised support– So, not everyone got some compensation of sorts. The quality of shelter provided was certainly not sufficient enough and two or three families were sharing a tent at the time of the visit. Over 80 children who were eligible for nursery to university-level training had been affected by the dump slide. Fortunately, the situation has since improved because they were given some compensation, and those who had been displaced left the site. Key recommendations i. Governments should expedite the compensation and relocation of 171 households that were displaced by the waste slide. ii. The Government should also expedite the roll-out of the National Garbage Management Plan. iii. The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) should prioritise the establishment of modern waste disposal sites in identified locations such as Menvu, Nansana, Ddundu, and Busumamula in Kira Municipality, incorporating advanced waste management technologies like incineration and recycling. iv. KCCA should invest in training and equipping waste management personnel with the necessary skills and protective gear to ensure safe and efficient operations. Madam Speaker, in conclusion, the oversight visits to Kiteezi Landfill revealed critical failures in waste management, generally in the country and Kampala in particular. Regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness were quite lacking. The collapse of the landfill devastated social, economic, and environmental impacts on the surrounding communities, which highlighted the urgent need for improved waste disposal infrastructure, entrenched regulatory frameworks, and timely interventions to prevent future disasters. That was a summary of the summary on Kiteezi Landfill. The brief report on the Internally Displaced Persons from Bududa and Kiryandongo. In March 2010, a devastating landslide struck Bududa, in Eastern Uganda – where my friend comes from, whom I was with when we visited that very particular place – leaving a trail of destruction and loss of 350 people; it was very tragic. [Mr Byarugaba] SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT

17459 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 29 MAY 2025 This was triggered by heavy rainfall. The landslides buried entire villages on the slopes of Mount Elgon, claiming hundreds of lives and displacing thousands of people. The disaster, which mainly affected the villages of Nametsi, Kubeho and Namakansa, highlights complex issues surrounding land management, disaster preparedness, resettlement planning, and environmental conservation. They were very unavailable there at that time. While exercising its mandate, the Office of the Prime Minister relocated 603 families to Panyandoli in the Kiryandongo District. In 2011, the Government initiated the construction of permanent low-cost houses for survivors of the March 2010 landslides who were relocated to Panyandoli Hills in the Kiryandongo District. The resettlement programme was implemented in phases, including the acquisition and allocation of 2.5 acres of land to each household, the provision of relief food for 10 complete months, support for land clearance, supply of seeds and agricultural inputs and access to education and health services within the settlement. The oversight visit to Kiryandongo revealed significant challenges faced by IDPs from Bududa, including inadequate shelter, land security, food and health care. Some of the structures were already showing signs of collapse, unfortunately. The committee, therefore, recommends that the Government prioritises the provision of essential services and support to the IDPs. Furthermore, the committee also calls for increased transparency and accountability in the management of funds allocated to IDP support. The Government should also develop a comprehensive plan for the sustainable resettlement and reintegration of IDPs in the entire country to avoid the repetition of what is happening in Kiryandongo. Unfortunately, when I talk of integration, what I saw there was a little bit distressing. The people there still believe they are not part and parcel of Kiryandongo; they still believe that they are part of Bugisu. They do not want to integrate with the local communities and that alone, of course, brings in quite a number of challenges. The details are within the report because I was given just only 20 minutes. Another summary is on the report on the Kampala City Abattoir. We only have one city abattoir, that is around Port Bell Road. The Kampala City Abattoir is the largest slaughterhouse in Kampala, processing livestock for both local consumption and distribution to various markets within Kampala and its environs. It operates under the supervision of Kampala Capital City Authority’s health department, veterinary services and other regulatory agencies. The Kampala City Abattoir is located on Plots 1, 2 and 3 Old Port Bell Road in Kampala and has been a site of significant controversy and legal disputes over its management and oversight. The abattoir initially was managed by Kampala City Council (KCC) and became the centre of complex conflict involving multiple stakeholders, including KCCA, Basajjabalaba Hides and Skins and Company Limited, Dan Kwantampola Katarihwa, and also the City Abattoir Traders Development Association (CTDA). All those were entangled in horrible conflicts that have gone through the decades. On 27 March 2016, Madam Speaker, His Excellency President Museveni, met the informal sector members, including City Traders Development Association (CTDA) and directed that the abattoir be repossessed by KCCA and tendered to the sitting tenants, which was CTDA. The President also instructed KCCA to determine reasonable rates for the traders. Findings i. The Kampala City Abattoir is not fully owned and managed by KCCA due to

17460 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION unsolved ownership issues, which gives traders a leeway to illegally collect money and run the abattoir without any regulation whatsoever; ii. The Kampala City Abattoir has shifted from its primary purpose and now operates more like a market, very disorganised, extremely very unhealthy and dirty. Anytime, we can face another disaster. When you go there, you do not feel like buying meat. But anyway, that is for us to consume. Recommendations i. KCCA should restore the abattoir to its original purpose so as to create trade order in that particular market; ii. KCCA should prioritise the construction of new structures at the abattoir. The current ones are in a sorry state; they are an eyesore. Those of you who have been there – The last summarised report is on the status of markets within Kampala. There are 17 markets in different divisions of Kampala. In February 2010, His Excellency, the President of Uganda, directed the then Kampala City Council to stop selling city markets to outsiders but rather hand them over to vendors within those particular markets. This prompted the Government to compensate a city businessman known as Hassan Basajjabalaba, who had at the time secured a contract to manage Nakasero and Owino markets in particular. With the new management of Kampala under Kampala Capital City Authority, the February 2010 directive was implemented and the markets were leased out in April 2014 to the different groups who were already vendors in those markets. In 2018, a new presidential directive was issued, guiding vendors to return markets to the local authorities, hence leading to court battles and mayhem in these markets. Key findings The Government markets in Kampala are owned and managed by the Kampala Capital City Authority, following the presidential directives that aimed at providing affordable trading spaces for vendors. However –

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The matter that is being presented is very important that the Minister of Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs needs to pay attention to but I am wondering why the minister is absent. We are going to be giving our views and it needs to be put on record that the Minister of Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs was around. Is it procedurally right to have this report when the Minister of Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs is absent? We need your guidance, Madam Speaker.

We are laying the report under rule 35; laying of committee field reports. However, what he raises is very pertinent because Members will need to understand what is happening right there. Much as you are laying the report, the minister ought to be here to respond to what one Member or two Members ought to say. The Government Chief Whip may not be able to respond to what is expected because this is within Kampala and Kampala has a minister. Let us go ahead and receive the report and we will allocate time to debate it. (Applause)

Very important indeed. Thank you, Madam Speaker, for that emphasis. However, in Owino, Nakasero, Bugolobi and Nakawa, property developers who invested their resources to develop these markets were not compensated by the Government when Kampala Capital City Authority(KCCA) assumed management, especially in Bugolobi; they are all up in arms with the KCCA. Finally, recommendations, Madam Speaker. i) The Government should find money and compensate the property developers, or the so-called landlords, as they are known. Most of them are retired public servants who used the little money available to them at that time to develop the market to what it is today, most specifically Bugolobi. ii) Kampala Capital City Authority(KCCA) should take charge in collecting taxes in these markets so that the Government can increase its tax base and uptake. Madam Speaker, I beg to move. Thank you.

Thank you so much. Government Chief Whip, ensure that the minister for Kampala is available in the next sitting for us to discuss these reports. In the meantime, we are going to deposit these reports in the library for easy access. Yes, Government Chief Whip?

Madam Speaker, I can confirm to the House that before the end of the sitting, if not one, both ministers in charge of Kampala will be here, the senior minister and the minister of state. They are both confirmed and on their way. Thank you.

Thank you. Honourable members, there is a report from the Ministry of Works and Transport, where they said that the contractor for the Kampala-Mityana-Mubende Road has been convinced to go back on the road, though they have not paid, so they want to make payment to that contractor. If we are talking about that - and Hon. Zaake can confirm that the contractor has been there for one week now. Hon. Ssekikubo of Lwemiyaga County?

Yes, Minister of Works and Transport? Honourable Government Chief Whip, we want the Minister of Works and Transport to handle the issue of roads. Hon. Nankabirwa, the Floor is yours. (Hon. Muruli- Mukasa rose_) Minister of Public Service, kindly, do not go away. We need an answer on the terminal benefits for the people you sacked out of RAPEX. MOTION FOR APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF SELECTED PLOTS OF LAND IN KAMPALA BY THE KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY AUTHORITY, PURSUANT TO SECTION 34(6) OF THE PUBLIC FINANCE MANAGEMENT ACT, 2015

Honourable members, you will recall that on 14 th May, I referred to the sectoral Committee on Physical Infrastructure, a request by Kampala Capital City Authority for the disposal of five selected plots in Kampala. The referral was to enable the committee to process a request for approval by this House, and that is made, pursuant to Section 34(6) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015. This House could not approve that request without the Minister in Charge of KCCA moving a motion himself. The minister is here and will require a report from the Committee on Physical Infrastructure; I hope they are here. Do you have the report? Okay, can you move the motion?

No, I am coming to that, Madam Speaker. To allow the selling off of five plots of Kampala for whatever reasons or for a loan and we are talking about the properties of this country, where we would be borrowing to buy more properties, we need to consider the future of this country, as we legislate today, but we are consumed by disposing of what is there, as if someone is carrying these plots on their head -

I will take it, but it is a disturbing motion. Even when you want to look away and listen, you don’t find any rational Ab initio as to why a minister who has a lot of work and business to do, is carrying a motion to say that we dispose of the five plots of Kampala. It is alien to the aspirations of the people of Uganda -

Moreover, he is my uncle, so I will report him back home. Anyway, I beg to move a motion for the approval of the proposed disposal of selected plots of land in Kampala by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) pursuant to those two sections of the Public Finance Management Act.

32(6), thank you very much, of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), states thus: “An accounting officer shall not pledge or otherwise encumber the land or any other asset of a Vote without the permission of Parliament.” Kampala Capital City Authority, is seeking to lease plot 2, Kenneth Close, Kamwokya; plot M731, Old Kira Road; plot M880, Offspring Road; plot 406, Namirembe Road; plot M69 and plot M70, Lugogo. Leasing of the land will help bring development to the city and also help the city to raise revenue to provide services to the residents of Kampala. The authority obtained all necessary approvals required to lease the land mentioned. The lessees are already in occupation of these plots intended to be disposed of. I therefore, request the House to approve the motion so that Kampala Capital City Authority can go ahead to lease the above-mentioned plots. I beg to submit

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I stand under the capacity building of Members of Parliament. I have been assigned this report by my chairperson to present a report on the Committee of Physical Infrastructure on the request by Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) to lease specific land parcels. This is –

Madam Speaker, this report is by the Committee on Physical Infrastructure on a request by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to lease: i) Plot 2, Kenneth Close, Kamwokya; ii) Plot M731, Old Kira Road; iii) Plot M880, Offspring Road; iv) Plot 406, Namirembe Road; and v) Plots M69 and M70, Lugogo. The committee scrutinised the request and now begs to report. Introduction On Wednesday, 14 May 2025, the Rt Hon. Speaker of Parliament referred a request from the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority seeking Parliament’s approval to lease five specific land parcels in accordance with Section 32(6) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Cap. 171, to the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee of Physical Infrastructure for urgent consideration and report to the House. Background Kampala Capital City Authority, being the registered proprietor of the following land, is requesting for parliamentary approval to lease the above plots. The aforementioned land parcels are to be disposed of by way of lease to the developers who have been in occupation of the parcels for a number of years - these are not new occupants but they have been on that very land - except Plot 2, Kenneth Close and Plot 880, Offspring Road, which are vacant and Plot 406, Namirembe Road, which is being leased to Buganda kingdom. Methodology The committee: i) Interacted with officials from Kampala Capital City Authority; ii) Scrutinised the request by the Executive Director and the survey and valuation reports; and iii) Reviewed letters of no objection from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Observations The committee observed that: i) Section 61 of the Kampala Capital City Authority Act, Cap. 195, mandates the Authority, in performance of its functions, to have due regard to the provisions of the PFMA; ii) Section 32(6) of the Public Finance Management Act, Cap. 171, mandates any accounting officer to seek parliamentary approval before pledging or encumbering land or any other asset – (Interruption)

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for that guidance. As we speak, apparently we have lost most of this public land due to a lot of fraudulent processes that have been done to dispose of them. Development happens on land, not in the air. Therefore, for purposes of this particular request by KCCA that has been brought to the attention of the Parliament, I ask honourable colleagues that we support and authorise them to go ahead and dispose them off because due diligence has been done by the committee, and the purpose for which it is going to be disposed of is very clear to us. In the cities of Mbarara, Kampala, Lira, Soroti, Gulu and Arua, most public land has been fraudulently disposed of. We should put our feet on the ground and form a committee so that we are able to go through them. If we do not do that and this process of disposing of public land in a fraudulent way continues, the Government will lose a lot of public land. Madam Speaker, it is also true that we cannot leave this public land in the cities redundant for long, yet we can authorise investment on it. You cannot talk about development when there is no land. As long as there is due diligence and

Honourable members, you have heard – and the committee did work on our behalf. The committee was vigilant enough to say the three plots should not be approved. I put the question that this House authorises the disposal of the following plots of land in the Kampala Capital City Authority, pursuant to Section 32(6) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015: 1. Plot M880, off Spring Road; and 2. Plot 406, Namirembe Road. (Question put and agreed to.) PROCLAMATION BY THE RT HON. SPEAKER ON THE PROROGATION OF THE FOURTH SESSION OF THE 11 TH PARLIAMENT

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. The procedural issue I am raising is that the atmosphere under which we transact business here must be free. When we were considering the so-called “Coffee Bill”, we had military people raiding Parliament, beating up MPs, arresting others, switching off lights and locking up journalists in the conference centre in the basement. This morning, I had mobilised the people of Kira to come here and witness today’s proceedings because I am here on their behalf. However, I came here when the whole Parliament had been barricaded by policemen with guns, and I have also seen people who look like Special Forces IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 34TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.12 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17393 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 20 MAY 2025 People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act, Cap 330. This Act, enacted in 2005, regulates the Uganda People’s Defence Forces as provided under Article 210 of the Constitution, replacing the Armed Forces Pensions Act, Cap 295, and the Uganda People’s Defence Act, Cap 307. Notably, the defence sector has undergone significant transformation since 2005, driven by emerging threats and opportunities, many of which the Act does not adequately address. The Act did not include health care for the officers and militants, management of military veterans, pension’s management, or service medals conferred by defence forces. Since 2005, the UPDF administrative structure has changed significantly, with Special Forces Command and Reserve Force elevated to independent services. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill, 2025 reflects this evolution. Additionally, the Bill seeks to align the Act with the Supreme Court decision in the Constitutional Appeal No.2 of 2021, which is the Attorney-General v. Hon. Michael Kabaziguruka. What are the objects of this Bill? It seeks to: i. Amend the UPDF Act, Cap 330, streamline the composition of the organs and structures of the defence forces; ii. Establish the health care service for members of the defence forces; iii. Establish a medical board; iv. Provide for the definition of service offences, the courts martial, military court and reserve force; v. Provide for the restructuring and establishment of the courts martial in the defence forces in accordance with Act 129(1) of the Constitution and prescribe for their jurisdiction. This Bill provides for: i) The membership and qualifications of the chairperson and the independence of the courts martial; ii) Appeals from the court-martial; iii) The exceptional circumstances under which civilians may be subject to military law and prescribe the offences for which civilians may be tried by the courts martial; iv) The establishment of the military courts department within the defence forces; v) The establishment of a disciplinary unit within the defence forces, which shall be responsible for the discipline of the members of the military courts department; vi) Prescribes the arms and ammunition, which are a monopoly of the defence forces and classified stores of the defence forces; vii) The management of the veterans’ affairs; and viii) Repeals the Uganda Veterans Assistance Board, Cap 221, and for related matters. Madam Speaker, for the record, we consulted, as is demanded by the processing of the Bill. We met and held discussions - constructive ones - with stakeholders like the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs. We also met the Attorney-General. We held discussions with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. While processing this Bill, we also entertained private legal practitioners, in this case, Counsel Jude Byamukama. We also entertained and granted audience to Kampala Reduction in Force Veterans of the UPDF, who gave us enriching perspectives and testimonies. We did document review. We looked at the Succession Act, the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces Act, Cap. 330 and the Pension Act, Cap. 89. We also looked at the Uganda Veterans Assistance Board Act, Cap. 221 and the Human Rights Enforcement Act, Cap. 12. The following are the salient observations on the Bill.

17396 THE UGANDA PEOPLE’S DEFENCE FORCES (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025 appointed by the Commander-in-Chief on the recommendation of the JSC from the list generated by the High Command. 6.2 Tenure of Service The Bill allows a three-year renewable tenure for chairpersons of courts martial but is silent on the terms for other members. The committee noted that secure tenure is vital for judicial independence, safeguarding judicial officers from arbitrary removal or political pressure. A three-year term is inadequate, and unclear removal grounds for members create insecurity, risking impartiality. Citing Justice Araph Ruhindi Ntengye & Another V. AG (Constitutional Petition No. 33 of 2016), which declared fixed-term contracts for justices unconstitutional, the committee advocates extending tenure to five years for all members and the defining grounds for removal to protect judicial independence. The committee recommends that: i) The term of all members be increased from three years to five years and is eligible for reappointment; and ii) The term should apply to all members of the Court Martial and not limited to the Chairperson as proposed in the Bill. Appeals from Decisions of the Court Martial The Bill permits Unit Court Martial to the Division of Courts Martial to the General Court Martial and from the General Court Martial to the Court of Appeal, with the Supreme Court as the final appellate court. The Attorney-General explained that since the High Court lacks appellate jurisdiction over capital offences, appeals for such cases must lay directly to the Court of Appeal. The committee agreed with this reasoning, but raised concerns about the practicability of requiring officers and soldiers in remote areas to travel to Kampala for the General Court Martial Appeals. This could be costly and could hinder access to justice. Additionally, the right to appeal where the aggrieved party is dissatisfied with the Unit Court Martial’s decision has only the right to appeal, while a Division Court Martial decision can be appealed to the Supreme Court, were viewed as unfair. The Bill restricts appeals on legal matters, making decisions of the Chairperson of the Unit and the Division Court Martial final. The committee deems this untenable, as it prevents parties from challenging potentially erroneous legal decisions, risking miscarriages of justice. The Bill’s clauses on the appeal and enforcement of sentences, particularly regarding the death penalty, were also problematic. The phrase of notice of intention to appeal differs from a formal notice of appeal, creating ambiguity and risk that death sentences could be executed before appeals are determined, hence violating Article 22(1) of the Constitution. This article guarantees that no person shall be deprived of life except after a fair trial and confirmation by the highest appellate court. Madam Speaker, we recommend the following: i) Appeals from the Unit Court Martial should lay with the Division Court Martial; ii) The decisions of a unit or Division Court Martial on matters of law and facts should be open to challenge; iii) Appeals from decisions of the General Court-Martial should lay with the Court of Appeal as proposed in the Bill; and iv) The proposed Section 227(2) should be deleted and Section 227(3) be aligned with the provisions of Article 22(1) of the Constitution. Structural re-organisation of defence forces The committee acknowledges the vital role of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in upholding national security and preserving and defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda. In light of the evolving security threats and expanding military responsibilities, there is a critical need to realign the UPDF structure.

17397 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 20 MAY 2025 Structural reform is based on Uganda’s legal framework, specifically Article 210 of the Constitution that empowers Parliament to make laws regulating the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, and in particular, provide for the organs and structures of UPDF. Section 2 of the UPDF Act, Cap. 330, provides for the mandate of Parliament to make laws to prescribe any services besides the land and air forces. At present, these two branches are central to the military operations of the UPDF, which also receives assistance from the reserve force during emergencies. A significant advancement has been the emergence of a Special Forces Command (SFC), a specialised elite unit tasked with carrying out specialised missions or operations at the moment notice, very important persons protection, and reconnaissance. While it is not legally provided for as a distinct service, the SFC holds a crucial position in linking conventional and special operations, collaborating closely with both the land forces and air forces. The committee notes that the Bill restructures the UPDF by creating new services, such as the SFC and the Reserve Force, to improve operational capacity and responsiveness. New organs such as the Joint Military Command and Service Command and Staff Committees are being established to enhance coordination, policy formulation, and strategic oversight. This reorganisation also includes renaming and redefining roles in the command structure for clarity, efficiency, and alignment with the current security needs. The committee, therefore, recommends that the proposal to restructure the UPDF to formally integrate specialised units such as the SFC as a distinct service branch should be supported to institutionalise specialised capabilities, enhance inter-service coordination, and ensure compliance with the legal and oversight requirements. On Veterans Affairs and Pension Reforms The committee notes that the Bill proposes transferring the administrative and management of pension and gratuity from the Ministry of Public Service to the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, aiming to enhance service delivery and more effectively meet the needs of the military personnel. A key aspect of this reform is the establishment of the Pensions Appeals Board to provide a formal mechanism for addressing grievances and disputes related to pension matters. Additionally, the repeal of the Uganda Veterans Assistance Board Act, Cap. 221 signifies a shift towards a more integrated and updated legal framework. These reforms also introduce comprehensive provisions for retirement benefits, gratuity, and pensions, including entitlements related to death in service and disability, ensuring improved welfare and dignity for the serving personnel and the veterans alike. The Kampala Reduction in Force UPDF veterans informed the committee that although they voluntarily enlisted in the National Resistance Army struggle, which ultimately resulted in a change of the Government, they continued to serve in the NRA/UPDF until their discharge, which occurred without a proper and formal dismissal. The committee notes that the UPDF has transformed since the 1990s, following significant military downsizing after achieving stability post internal conflict. This began demobilisation efforts and restructuring of the UPDF alongside pension reforms for veterans. The reduction in force affected thousands of personnel, especially older veterans and non- combatants, aimed at enhancing security and lowering public spending. However, systemic issues in the pension system emerged as many veterans faced unclear entitlements, delays, and bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining their benefits. Scholars such as Obore (2006), highlight that while legislation aimed to guarantee pension rights, many veterans remain unrecognised due to inadequate documentation or unclear classifications. For example, informal service or voluntarism, not recognised as pensionable.

17415 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 20 MAY 2025 Madam Speaker, even if this answer is denied, the question to the Government and the mover of the Bill is - the NRM government, in power for 39 years, virtually recruited and appointed all the cadres: the investigators (police), the prosecutors, office of the DPP, the arbitrators, the judicial officers (if we check on the record of the current structure of police leadership and the rest, all of them have been recruited by this Government) – Are they justified to complain on the incompetence, the weakness in the judicial system? The question is, the NRM government in power for 39 years and who recruited and appointed all the cadres in the justice system, the police, prosecutors and the arbitrators, the judicial officers, are they justified to complain on the incompetence, weakness in the civil courts to handle any case in Uganda? If the minority was granted more time, Madam Speaker, it would have produced on record all cases of murder, aggravated robberies, terrorism proposed in the Bill against the accused person, including military personnel, which have been successfully prosecuted in the civilian courts. By the time of writing this report, Madam Speaker, I had not known that yesterday the High Court convicted a former soldier, a militant, of an offence. That further demonstrates and strengthens my argument that, actually, the civilian courts right now can convict, try and convict murder, aggravated robbery, et cetera. The minority invites the attention of Members, especially those familiar with court papers, to reflect on the proposal of the Chief Justice, which captures the spirit of the advisory orders by the Chief Justice as follows: I have put a heading there just to illustrate when we come to the amendment. “All the headings of courts in Uganda would be written, the Republic of Uganda, in the High Court of Uganda, it could be in Kampala, for example, and in brackets, we put the provision for Court Martial/Military Division.” That is what the learned Chief Justice had advised. Finding The minority finds that the proposals in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill 2025, purporting to recreate the Court Martial with unlimited original jurisdiction, are unconstitutional as they inadvertently amend Article 139 of the Constitution of Uganda without following the procedure of amendment provided under Chapter 18 of the same Constitution. The minority further finds that it is administratively viable to provide for a specialised court within the civilian courts for the purpose of trial of criminal offences committed by military personnel. The next point of dissent is limited or exceptional circumstances, as has been said. Madam Speaker, the minority recognises the discussion in the judgement on the limited circumstances of trials of civilians and or military persons in the Court Martial in Uganda. In the judgement, the minority understands that these circumstances appear to be strictly in reference to a situation where, and we can pay attention: (1) The Constitution is not in force, similar to the military rule during Idi Amin’s regime. That is the first condition for the trial of civilians in the military court. There must not be a constitution in force. (2) Courts of law have no capacity to try the offences. For example, there are shortages of competent judicial officers; and (3) Soldiers and civilians are on duty or deployed in a foreign land where there is no possibility of returning them for trial in Uganda, and there is no other court in that country to try the accused. We all know where our army, the UPDF, is deployed, so the Court Martial can try them there in case that country does not have a law or the situation of the war in that country. That is the understanding of the minority.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I am seeking your guidance. This morning, I received a notice to attend a meeting scheduled by the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs at 10 o’clock in the morning. When you observe this House, it is virtually empty. I have also seen a number of committees moving out, yet we are in a very important process that would require numbers. The guidance I am seeking from you is wheth - er you could prevail over some of the commit - tees that are also scheduling competing activ - ities with Plenary, which should actually take precedent, to allow Members to participate in this very important budgeting process. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 33RD SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.19 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala . PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I also suspect that the quorum is af - fected by what is going on, on the roads. It is really tough to access Parliament, and I do not know what is happening. There are stops everywhere. It took me almost 30 minutes to move from Kingdom Kampala to here. When I –

17322 MOTION FOR APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED ANNUAL BUDGET, 2025/2026 Non-wage was recorded at Shs 8.33 trillion, which equated to 61 per cent of the approved budget, performed at 86.6 per cent. The development expenditure of Shs 5,736.8 billion, which performed at less than 52 per cent. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, due to poor budget performance for development expenditure at half year, Government should fast track and ensure key ongoing projects in order for them to meet conditions required by development partners to unlock external disbursements and address the project-related execution challenges before the end of this financial year, if possible. In addition, the committee urges Government to always adhere to the approved budgeted work plans and ensure budget discipline in the execution of the budget. Regarding the spending on the Contingency Fund on page 16, in line with Section 25(3) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), we report the expenditure on the Contingency Fund as outlined. It was Shs 8.43 billion, which was released to the Office of the Prime Minister for disaster preparedness and floods in various districts. Shs 374 million was given to the Ministry of Works and Transport, Shs 70 million was given to the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development. Shs 4.916 billion was given to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to manage the after-effects of Kiteezi, Shs 1.077 billion to Uganda Police to manage security at Kiteezi and Shs 500 million to Kampala Metropolitan Affairs to coordinate disaster response at Kiteezi. Expenditure on domestic arrears By the end of December 2024, Shs 217.43 billion had been spent on domestic arrears against a budget of Shs 199.931 billion, implying an over expenditure of Shs 17.499 billion. Programme expenditure performance as outlined in table 7. This is the level of releases and outturns for the first half of the Financial Year 2024/2025 and the percentages outlined. You can see Agro-industrialisation performed at 56 per cent, sustainable petroleum development at 96 per cent and others. In short, a total of 15 out of 26 programmes received over 50 per cent of their total budget by half year, which can be explained by additional supplementary expenditures during the financial year. In regard to expenditure of the total released budget, mineral development, private sector development, sustainable energy development, community mobilisation, mind-set change and administration of justice programmes performed below 50 per cent. 3.5. External loan performance and absorption Paragraph 2.2 of the Public Debt and other Financial Liabilities Management Framework in the Financial Year 2023/2024 – 2027/2028 requires the Government acquisition and utilisation of Public Debt and Contingent Liabilities to be sustainable and transparent. However, external projects financed through loans have continued to underperform over the years due to slow absorption of funds available. Unabsorbed loans attract commitment charges, which increase the cost of servicing debt and undermine the intended objectives of the loan. This is a nightmare for Uganda. For instance, in the Financial Year 2023/2024, there was an increase in undisbursed loans amounting to Shs 1.89 trillion, representing a 12.95 per cent increase from the closing balance of Shs 14.6 trillion in the Financial Year 2022/2023, resulting in the payment of commitment fees totalling Shs 73.904 billion in the Financial Year 2024/2025, and the breakdown is given in the table. Madam Speaker, this country continues to lose money in commitment fees every year, because we borrow and do not implement the projects. Committee observations i. Most of the delays in loan absorption have been attributed to delayed procurements and delayed land acquisition.

17325 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 15 MAY 2025 Committee observation The committee observed that the fiscal deficit to GDP ratio has shown a declining trend over the three financial years, reducing from 12.94 per cent in 2021/2022 to 7.93 per cent in 2023/2024, as compared to the target of 4.6 per cent. The continued presence of a big fiscal deficit still presents the need for prudent fiscal policies to maintain long-term sustainability and achieve the target. Committee recommendations We urge the Government to strengthen the implementation of its fiscal consolidation strategy to achieve the set targets. This is an encouraging trend; we should continue in that line. 3.10 Implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) Madam Speaker, the PDM is a strategy for service delivery by the Government of Uganda to improve the incomes and welfare of all Ugandans at the household level by transforming 39 per cent of households from a subsistence economy to a money economy. The PDM is implemented at seven pillars, and the primary pillar is the agricultural value chain development, that is, production, storage, processing, and marketing. The other pillars include infrastructure and economic services, financial inclusion, social services, and community mobilisation and mind-set change. The Parish Development Management Infor - mation System and Governance Administra - tion In the Financial Years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, Parliament approved Shs 1,097.633 billion for the PDM programme. Of that, 1.0959 trillion was for the Parish Revolving Fund (PRF) to finance 10,594 PDM Savings and Credits Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in 176 local governments and the Kampala Capital City Authority. Committee observations (as per the Auditor- General’s assessment) The Auditor-General found that there is no evidence for the identification of 5,099 PDM parish or ward priorities in 115 local governments using the format prescribed in the guidelines for onward submission to local governments and higher local governments. In addition, the Auditor-General did not obtain evidence that the 25 participating MDAS aligned their work plans to their pillar implementation action plans. ii. A review of the status of the PDM data collection from the Parish Development Model Information System and National Household Registration Reports as of April 2024 revealed that the household level data collection was at 79.9 per cent progress level while the population registered was only at 46.3 per cent. This data should be the basis upon which the population would be profiled to identify qualifying beneficiaries as well as facilitate periodic reviews and impact assessments; iii. The Auditor-General also noted that 2,985 PDM Savings and Credits Cooperative Societies in 127 local governments did not have registered offices in their documents; iv. Out of the expected seven modules of the PDM, two modules were partially implemented and three were not implemented. The Office of the Auditor- General (OAG) noted that the WENDI mobile application platform used by the SACCOs to receive funds is yet to be integrated with participating government- owned banks. Committee recommendations - The Government should ensure that the Parish Development Committees and local governments are trained in the prioritisation and incorporation of PDM activities in their budget and work plans.

17350 MOTION FOR APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED ANNUAL BUDGET, 2025/2026 The first issue is; are people in the Government really thinking or do they go to the dictionary, pick words and give the minister to come and present here? These are the realities we have to check. Secondly, if you are talking about the strategy itself – agro-industrialisation and tourism – I want to fault the Government for thinking that tourism is national parks and watching animals. When we apply for visas to visit some of these countries, which visa do they give you? A tourist visa. If there is a place in Uganda that requires support for tourism development, it is Kampala because everyone comes here for a visit. It is the urban centres that we have and it is the facilities within the urban centres which people come to see. In Lira City, for example, we have tourists who come from Agago and Abim on a daily basis to visit Lira and go back. There are so many tourists who come to Kampala for this visit. The point I am raising is we should depart – (Hon. Amos Okot rose_)

What is it? Honourable member from Agago, let him conclude. [Mr Amos Okot: “Madam Speaker, I come from Agago.”] Hon. Odur, can you conclude? He is a tourist. We are all tourists; I am also a tourist in Kampala. (Applause)

PR(X}RA[f,E Apprwcd Budgct Rclcarcd UGif, Ba 81nnt IIGX Ba % h3Lt fuhril fUorilton % Agro-Industrialization 1,138.2 605.4 338.1 53% #f% Mineral Derrclopment 29.9 13.1 9.4 ffi 72o/o Sustainable Petnoleum Derrclopment 454.2 273.6 262.4 OM 96% Manufachrring L62.8 136.1 109.4 UVo Wo Tourism Darclopment 297.8 159.4 t29.5 il% 8t% Nahrral Rcsources, Environment, Climatc Change, Iand And Watcr 232.5 130.2 85.7 #Vo 6Vo Prftate Sector Darelopment 1,636.2 371.8 342.6 23Vo 92Vo Sustainable Enerry Dorclopment 188.0 81.6 69.9 4g% 6Vo Integrated Ttansport Infrastruchrre And Sewices 1,983.1 I,102.0 994.6 #% 90,% Sustainable Urbarrisation And Housing 106.0 74.5 50.6 7eh 68P/o Pjgttal TtanEformation, L23.4 LO6.2 94.2 6% 89o/o 1 sII 9 10 11 Spendlng o! Contlngency Fund: In line with Section 25 (3) of the Rrblic Finarrce Management Act, Cap. L7l, the Contingency Fund was allocated Shs 169 bn by Parliament for the W 2024125. By the end of December 2024, Shs 75 bn had been transferned to the fund. Of the amount transferred to the fund, Shs 15.375 bn has been spent, ass follows; , Shs 8.437 bn was released to the Offrce of the Prime Minister (OPM) for disaster nesponses in the flood alfected districts. r Shs 374 million to Ministry of Works and Transport r Shs 7O million to Ministry of Gender, l,abor and Social Development, ' Shs 4.916 bn to Kampala Capital City Authority to manage the after- effects of the Kitad,landfrll disaster, r Shs L.O77 bn to Uganda Police to manage security atKitcd,, ' Shs 500 million to Ministry of IGmpala Metropolitan Affairs to coordinate disaster responses at Kitcezi. kpeadltule or lbnortlc Arrarr: By the end of December 2024, UGX 2L7.430billion had been spent on domestic arrears agninsl a budget of UGX 199.931billion implymg an over orpenditr.ue of UGX L7.499 billion. 3.4 Prcgranme Hpendltule Petfornrnce The tebtrc 7 below illustrates the GoU Programme level Releases and Outturns in the first half of F"f 2024125. Table 7 GoU Prcgrenne level Rcleares and Outturnr. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ( -\d€' 15 !Pa & Nt a I tl t I

\,$ F 3.1O Inplemcntation of the Pertrh Devetroprneat Model The Parish Development Model (PDM) is a strategr for senrice delivery by the Government of Uganda to improve the incomes and welfare of all Ugandans at the household level by transforming 39o/o of households from a subsistence economy to a money economy. The PDM is implemented rmder seven (7) pillars and the primary pillar is ttre "Agriculture Value Chain Development (Production, Storage, Processing, and Marketing)". Ttre other pillars include: Infrastnrcture and Economic Senrices; Financial Inclusion; Social Services; Commrmity Mobilization and mindset change; Parish Development Management Information System; and Governance and Administration. In the W 2023120124 and FY2024125, Parliament appropriated UGX. L,O97.633 Bn for the PDM Programme, of which UGX.1,O59.4Bn was for the Parish Rwolving F\rnd (PRF) to finance 10,594 PDM SACCOs in L76 LGs and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). hmmittce obsquatians (re Wr OAG assessment| L No euidene for tle identifimtion of 5,099 PDM pafisVuard, priorities in 775 LGs, ustng the fonnnt prcsuiM in tle guidelhcs for onuard. srrbmissbn to IJ;Gs and IILGs. In additbn, I did rwt obtain euidcne that tle 25 participafuq MDAI aligpn heir uork plans to the pillar implemenffiion adion plans ; ii A rcuieut of the status of the PDM data qlledian fum tle Parish Derrclopment Model Information Sgstrlnt (PDMIS) Natipnal Houselald Regisfiation Reports as of April 2024, rcuealed thnt houselwld-lewl dofa alledion uas at 79.93% prqgress lerrcL uhile tlrc popilation rcgistered uas onlg at 46.30% ptryress letrcL This data should be the bosis upon uhidt the popilntion uould be profiled to identify Enltfgutg bencfrciaries, as utell os foctlitatc priodic teuieus and. Wact assessments,' iiL 2,985 PDM Sauings and Oedit Cooperutiue tucieties (SACCOs) in 127 Le'c,, did. nat lunrc tqistercd offires ontleir doanment-s; 567 PDM SACCOs in 41 .LGs'rcgisterct offtres did. ttot "xist, uidle 2,898 PDM SACCOs in 121 Lk did not houe euidenre of a signboand. sltouring their narnr;s and. addtess; lV Afi of the eryeded seuen (O7) modules of the PDMIS, tuto (O2) modules u)e?e IuUg implementcd, ruo p2) - modules ure?e partiallg implemente$ and, 3 madules u)ene not implem.entd.. The OAG further rwted thnt the WENDI mobile oppliution plotform used bg SACCOs to rceiue fwd4 is yet to be utith fuuernment-oum.ed banlss; JdKEF k 23 Page ,A €- r .B 1t tl:i_

Madam Speaker, I appreciate that you have followed up on the matter that I raised yesterday, so that we get to see justice prevail in our good country. Yesterday, I focused quite a bit on Edward Sebuufu – Eddie Mutwe, who was abducted, tortured. He was eventually produced in court as opposed to being produced and taken to a hospital - but there are others who are missing too. Kassim Ssebudde was abducted on the same day, the 27 th of April, as Eddie Mutwe. He is still missing to date. Michael Mpalanyi was abducted from Matugga on 18 March 2025. Shakur Ssentongo was abducted from Jinja on 5 March 2025. I call them abductions because these were not arrests. During an arrest, an officer shows up, saying, “I am officer so-and-so; I am arresting you for this offence,” and they take you to a police station. These ones were abducted by gunmen, put in drones, taken to no-one-knows- where, up to now. Police deny knowledge of them; so it is not known where they are. However, we believe that like all these others, they are in the hands of the Government. Can the Government account for these people? More importantly, we are saying this for the umpteenth time; when shall this stop? Why IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 31ST SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17248 THE HIDESAND SKINS (EXPORT DUTY) (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025 overs from NDP III. However, due to the large funding gap, it will be impossible to undertake the activities in the work plan, with the potential catastrophic effects on the state of roads across the country. In line with this shortfall, the Ministry of Works and Transport has made allocations prioritising payments of arrears and acquisition of land for ongoing works. Most of the ongoing projects have not received sufficient funding to cover the planned scope of work. For example, the Mityana-Mubende Road requires an allocation of Shs 130 billion but was only allocated Shs 21 billion. Kampala-Jinja requires Shs 90 billion but was only allocated Shs 7 billion. Mbarara-Ishaka was not allocated any resources, despite being in very bad shape. The allocation projects are located in Annex 3 and if no extra funds are allocated, the result will be an increase in the domestic arrears, including interest on the unpaid sums. Impact of the funding gap Madam Speaker, the funding gap I have described will negatively impact the ministry’s ability to undertake land acquisition, complete ongoing projects, carry out urgently required maintenance works on the network, and commence strategic projects like from Bobi- Corner Ayer to support our expected AFCON 2027. This budget shortfall will also affect the implementation of externally funded projects, as resources are required for counterpart funding and land acquisition for the projects. Honourable members, if the extra allocation is not made now, the Government of Uganda will have to pay more in the long run due to the following factors; 1. Interest on delayed payments will increase. The estimated interest in the Financial Year 2025/2026 due to delayed payment is approximately Shs 48 billion. 2. In cases where contractors demobilise, when work resumes, it will include the extra scope of work to cover the damage done to the structure when the contractor was not on the site. You may have seen this in Ibanda; 3. Contractors’ claims for the demobilisation and also reputational damage to the country, which will cause contractors to increase their future bid prices to cater for the risk of non-payment; 4. Delayed utilisation of external finances, which results in increased financing costs for the loans; and 5. Increased accidents at the abandoned sites and across the road network where interventions are required. In addition to the direct costs mentioned above, Madam Speaker, there is a larger risk of losing the value of the road assets that the Government of Uganda has invested in over the last 15 years. The total paved network currently stands at 6,306 kilometres, as of Financial Year 2024/2025. This paved network is increasingly at risk of deterioration due to under-investment in timely maintenance. As a result of the underfunding, already, 615 kilometres of the paved network have deteriorated beyond maintenance levels and will require expensive interventions in the form of rehabilitation or, in some cases, full reconstruction. Madam Speaker, it is much cheaper to undertake periodic maintenance interventions such as resealing and local repairs compared to the full rehabilitation that is usually required when a road is neglected. The cost of the periodic maintenance ranges from Shs 646 million to Shs 1.14 billion per kilometre, while the cost of rehabilitation ranges from Shs 2.28 billion to Shs 2.66 billion per kilometre. The periodic maintenance activities renew the life of the road. A good example is the Kampala Northern Bypass, where the periodic maintenance currently being implemented will give the road a new lease of life at a reasonable [Mr Ecweru] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

17249 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA W EDNESDAY, 14 MAY 2025 cost, compared to waiting until the road requires full rehabilitation later on down the road. If no periodic maintenance activities are done on the national road network in the Financial Year 2025/2026, projections indicate that, in addition, 500 kilometres of paved roads, currently in fair condition, will degrade to the point of requiring full rehabilitation. This loss in asset value, Madam Speaker, has been estimated at around Shs 1.007 trillion over that financial year, that is, 2025/2026. My prayer, Madam Speaker, is that, together, the challenges I have described require urgent intervention to mitigate the adverse effects of the current funding shortfalls. I propose the following strategy to help mitigate this, and we have shared this with the different committees: 1. Provide additional resources to enable contractors on the ongoing projects such as Mityana-Mubende, Kampala-Jinja, Karuma- Pakwach, Najjanankumbi-Busabala, Kira- Matugga, Tororo-Busia, to complete them on schedule; 2. Providing funds for land acquisition and counterpart funding for ongoing externally financed projects to ensure the external resources are not left lying idle. For example, Rwekunye-Apac, Lira-Puranga, Muyembe-Nakapiripirit, Kiruhura-Kamwenge, Namagumba-Budadiri, just to mention but a few; 3. Provide funds for key maintenance projects such as in Mbarara-Ishaka, Nebbi-Arua, Mubende-Kyenjojo, et cetera, and emergency bridge repairs; 4. Provide funds for payment of outstanding arrears to reduce the accumulation of interest and maintain the service providers’ confidence in the Government’s commitment to pay for works done; 5. Prioritisation of funding for maintenance and ensuring funds are released in a predictable manner to enable proper planning for maintenance activities. Assurances Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Works and Transport commits to conducting road safety inspections at all work zones to ensure that adequate warnings in the form of signage and other safety devices are installed. The ministry will also continue to conduct inspections of black spots across the road network to install mitigation measures to ensure that the safety of our road users is guaranteed. Madam Speaker, I would like to assure you and all the honourable members that the Ministry of Works and Transport is committed to utilising the allocated resources in the most effective manner possible for reliable and safe works, transportation infrastructure and services. I beg to submit.

Madam Speaker, I am glad the minister is here, but also the Minister of Public Service, Hon. Muruli Mukasa, who defended rationalisation, is also here. The promise was that we were going to be more efficient and better. We gave you UNRA. Madam Speaker, UNRA had, for example, a department – I think a unit – for road safety. You have not activated it in the ministry. You are talking about money. We want to know the issue of continuity. When you took over UNRA, for example, the marram roads across the country were abandoned. Even the little money that you took, we want you to tell us what you have done. Where is the efficiency that was promised? Sometimes you pass through the roads and you wonder whether there is anyone in charge. If you look at the barriers, when you are going to the airport, through the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, the traffic jam has increased. Honourable minister, even with some of your contracts, you expect the contractor to make sure that there is continuity of the roads. However, if you look at the works that are going on, some of the contractors appear unsupervised. This is a challenge for you. You need to assure this House that we did not make a mistake by giving you UNRA. We want you to assure us how better you have become since we gave you UNRA. How much have you saved and how much more are you doing?

These are two laws with different objectives and that issue was already settled. That is why we allowed Hon. Mpuuga to come with this law. Next item? PARLIAMENTARY APPROVAL OF A REQUEST FOR THE DISPOSAL OF PIECES OF LAND BY THE KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY AUTHORITY

Honourable members, listen. Section 34(6) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 requires the accounting officer not to pledge or otherwise encumber the land or any asset of a Vote without permission from Parliament. To this end, we received letters from the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority dated 1 st April, seeking parliamentary approval to lease, not dispose, the following pieces of land: Plot 2, Kenneth Close in Kamwokya, Plot M731, Old Kira Road, Plot M880, off Spring Road, Plot 406, Namirembe, Plot M69, M70 land at Lugogo. The justification for this disposal is for development and revenue purposes in the form of ground rent and property rents; they want to get rent from that property. Considering that this intended disposal has a bearing on the budget plans and priorities for the Vote of the subsequent financial year, the House approval is required. As Parliament - Yes?

The reason why we are raising this is that, we are aware Kampala City has a lot of land. I will give an example: In Naguru, I am one of those the district land board of Kampala City leased land some time back, and they did it because

Madam Speaker, we have made a mistake before. The person who should have read that is the minister for Kampala. For you, Madam Speaker to read that, you have erred because you are not a minister for Kampala, you are the Speaker for Parliament of Uganda.

The letter was written to me and the amendment says, “to the Speaker.” Do you want me to delegate to the Minister of Kampala? what we can do is to give our committee to go and see that land, give us a report before we approve. The issue is referred to the Committee on Physical Infrastructure and will report back immediately. Next item? Hon. Nathan, I want to ask, if I am to sell the land in Bukedea - if the district wants to sell land - do they have to come and ask for permission from Parliament? That is what the amendment of your law says.

We shall explain why Kampala City was put in the law –

No, it is not only Kampala City. It is any Vote holder. An accounting officer in Bukedea has to come and seek for authorisation in Parliament. Next? MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT TO AUTHORISE GOVERNMENT TO BORROW UP TO UNITED STATES DOLLARS (USD) DEVELOPMENT BANK AND (USD) FUND FOR DEVELOPMENT FOR THE UPGRADING OF KUMI-NGORA-SERERE- KAGWARA ROAD (98KM)

17236 THE UGANDA PEOPLE’S DEFENCE FORCES (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025 Tuesday, 13 May 2025 some kind of efficiency in the Ministry of Works and Transport. To our disappointment, things have continued worsening every day. When you look at this road to Mityana, the road to Karuma- within town here, so many accidents are happening. The potholes can even swallow a whole car because they are not being maintained. I do not know whether it was a good idea to rationalise UNRA in the name of efficiency. We allocated money - there was money that we put in the works ministry , which was out of the rationalisation process. However, this money has not been put to use, and because it has not been utilised, there is a claim that the funds have not been released. Yet on 17 th April, the House passed a resolution to reallocate the budget for pending works under the Ministry of Works and Transport. That was out of RAPEX. This money was sent to the works ministry . Now, we want a report from the Minister of Works and Transport on what is happening on the roads, especially around Kampala, on the accident that occured on the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, and on how they are handling the contractors that are working on those roads. That report should come to the House tomorrow. We cannot continue losing people day in and day out, and yet we have a whole ministry responsible for the works. Honourable members, you recall, on Monday, 21 April 2025, we lost the Roman Catholic pope, Pope Francis. This marked the end of the pope’s 12-year reign. At that time, the House was not in session, so we could not pay tribute to the holy IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 30TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Honourable members, I welcome you to this afternoon sitting. I also welcome our guests in the VIP gallery this afternoon - that is, His Excellency Archbishop Luigi Bianco, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda; you are most welcome. (Applause) He is accompanied by Monsignor John Baptist Kauta, Secretary General of the Uganda Episcopal Conference and our own Fr Kaweesa. You are most welcome. (Applause) Honourable members, we have noted with a lot of concern what is happening with the roads in Uganda. Recently, we have had a lot of accidents. The worst was this recent one that involved one of the young businessmen, Rajiv Ruparelia, that happened on the Kampala- Entebbe Expressway. The contractors were given work, but they put blocks on the road without any signage indicating that the road was blocked. They remove them and put them back at leisure. There has been a problem. The fact that we rationalised the Uganda National Roads Authority(UNRA) – we thought we would have

Honourable minister for works, while you were away, we raised issues of roads and accidents in Kampala. As Parliament, we regret why we rationalised the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). We want a statement from you tomorrow.

Thank you. The issue was about payments – I am the one who requested the minister to make a statement; so I know what I requested. Okay? I requested the minister to update us on the issue of payment. As you are looking into it, you can look into issues that the Auditor-General had raised. That was the major point. I remember even the Leader of the Opposition said that even if we had adopted that, we would need to look through the Auditor-General’s report. This is the only window that we can use to look into it. Specifically, I was looking at that. However, that does not mean that the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development cannot come and give a full update. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 29TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.18 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17211 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 17 APRIL 2025 I will charge the Ministry of Public Service, which is responsible. It is not enough to say, we have decentralised services, let those other people do their things. The teachers who called me said, when they went to the human resource officers of the districts, they told them to follow up from Kampala yet the people of Kampala said they have decentralised salaries. I think we need to look into this comprehensively. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

17113 Wednesday, 16 April 2025 tax exemptions, then sit at the border and start collecting tax on behalf of the Government. If you bypass them- of course, the 6 per cent already, you cannot compete in the market because they are exempted. So all these companies are now forced to go through these few. This petition came here two years ago, and the Committee on Trade, Tourism and Industry handled the matter, and all this was stopped. There was calmness and fairness in the trade of rice, especially from people who get it from Tanzania, but now, it has resumed. As a presiding officer, when you wake up, people send you thousands of messages and videos, etcetera – I mean it is depressing. Another issue is that when you touch these people, they run to court and get court injunctions. “URA (Uganda Revenue Authority) do not touch me” and then, because there is a group, last time when we handled this matter, they had gone to court and URA won in the end, but they did not have money to pay because they were dealers, not rice traders. They just form companies, get permits through their ways and they start dealing. So, today I spoke to the Commissioner General of URA, and he said, “We defeated them in court but they did not have money to pay us, despite making billions which they share through certain chains”. I think as the Government we need to sit down and stand our ground by saying “people should IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 28TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.16 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. Honourable colleagues, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students and teachers from FPA High School, Busiro North, Wakiso. They are represented by Hon. Paul Nsubuga and Hon. Ethel Naluyima. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please join me in welcoming them. Kindly stand up. (Applause) Thank you. Equally, in the public gallery, we have a delegation of student Guild leaders from King Caesar University, Kampala. They are led by the Guild President, Mr Adonia Ainebyoona. They are represented in Parliament by Hon. Derrick Nyeko and Hon. Shamim Malende. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Thank you. Next item.

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for recognising that we cannot do away with our tradition, which must symbolise this Parliament at all times. I am moving under rule 232 (2), which requires that some documents can, upon request, be inspected by a Member. I have listened to the committee chairperson’s submission, and I am privy to the fact that the sectors he deals with are one of the greatest contributors to emissions in this country. I know traffic congestion costs this country about US$ 1.5 billion annually. It has made Kampala one of the most polluted cities. I would have wanted to understand whether this committee has ensured that the various sectors they are handling comply with the law, which requires them to integrate climate change into their programming. I can only be able to do that if you exercise your rights and privileges under that rule to help me examine the documents he has laid before this House. Mr Speaker, I invite you to exercise your rights under that rule and allow me to inspect whether this report, with its accompaniments, which have been laid here, actually comply with what the law says or not.

17123 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 The New Standard Gauge Railway Line The committee was informed that the Standard Gauge Railway line has been allocated Shs 79 billion under the Government of Uganda counterpart funding, and Shs 2.2 trillion under external financing for the year 2025/2026. The committee was further informed that although the Engineering, Procurement and Construction/Turnkey Contract (EPC/T) was signed in October 2024 and construction was expected to commence this financial year, sourcing of more external financing will still take some time. In view of the above, the Government of Uganda and the contractor agreed to start part of the preliminary works on the project under limited notice to proceed arrangement for which the budget is Euros 75 million. The works were expected to commence in January 2025 and the process to effect this is ongoing. Whereas the preliminary works are set to commence soon and full works in the Financial Year 2025/2026, the external budget of Shs 2.2 trillion is inadequate, but the budget of Shs 79 billion is significantly inadequate. The project requires additional funding. The committee noted that in the FY 2025/26, the ministry requires Shs 765 billion to fully offset the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, leaving a funding gap of Shs 686 billion. The committee further noted that the SGR project is long overdue, given that the new railway system will alleviate congestion on Uganda’s roads, a long-standing challenge, and will reduce passenger travel time through offering efficient and reliable transportation. The committee reiterates its earlier recommendation that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development allocates an additional Shs 686 billion towards the Standard Gauge Railway in order to ensure that it fully commences in the Financial Year 2025/26 as prior planned. Further, the Ministry should prioritise sourcing additional external funding for the project. The committee also urges Government to fully commit to adequate funding of its critical projects if it is to meet the desired outputs as enshrined in the National Development Plan Four(NDP4), focusing on building and maintaining strategic, sustainable infrastructure in transport, housing, energy, water, industry and Information Communications Technology (ICT). The Development of the New Kampala Port in Bukasa The Government of Uganda intends to construct a port at Bukasa near Kampala to address the future traffic demands across Lake Victoria. The planned infrastructure developments involve the construction of the ports and associated marine transport services, and the development of railway and road links to the port. This, will form part of the central corridor route from Kampala across Lake Victoria to Mwanza and Musoma and then, on to the Indian Ocean ports of Tanga and Dar es Salaam. The main purpose of the Project, is to develop a second cargo route to the Indian Ocean in favour of Uganda and its neighbours. This is a public-private partnership engagement where GAF Consultants Engineers is the private entity whose role includes acting as technical consultant, project manager, procurement agent, technical assistant for port operations and training. The committee noted that in the Financial Year 2025/26, the project has been allocated Shs 3 billion, against a funding requirement of Shs 7 billion. The Ministry plans to complete (62.5) per cent cumulative swamp removal and complete reclamation works, as well as compensate 12 numbers of PAPs in the next financial year. The committee cognisance of the need for alternative routes for both domestic and international cargo, and the adverse effects this

17125 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 The mechanical engineering services The Government procured and distributed road equipment to various districts, government institutions to improve infrastructure and road maintenance. Concerning the mechanical engineering services, the committee noted that routine road equipment maintenance and corrective road equipment maintenance outputs are inadequately financed, given the gravity of the status of road equipment in most districts. In the Financial Year 2025/26, Shs 23 billion has been allocated against a funding requirement of Shs 66 billion. The committee recommends that the Government adequately funds road equipment maintenance, given that repairs need to be done in a timely manner, because when left unattended, they develop into much bigger- complicated issues, which require more money and, at times, total overhaul. Uganda Civil Aviation Authority The committee was informed by Uganda Civil Aviation Authority that it required 67.4 acres of land formerly owned by the M inistry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and NAGRC, to facilitate the expansion of Entebbe International Airport. In respect to that, the committee recommends that MAAIF/ NAGRIC, should immediately relocate from the land at the airport which was paid for by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority in 2019. This should be enforced within six months of the adoption of this report to clear the way for the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority to plan for the expansion. The Government Debt The committee noted with concern that as of 31 January 2025, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority was owed Shs 159 billion. Mr Speaker, the committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should provide a clear repayment plan to ensure that these Government agencies completely repay the debts owed to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority incrementally until completion in a period not exceeding three years. Encroachment on the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority land The committee noted, with concern, that some land and property belonging to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority at Entebbe International Airport and other regional airports were encroached upon by local communities and other individuals. In respect to that, Mr Speaker, the committee recommends that the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority expedite the titling, proper demarcation, and fencing of all its land across the country and seek legal redress, including tenable enforcement of eviction of illegal occupants on all its land across the country. Maintenance of aerodromes The committee noted that aerodromes are crucial, acting as vital gateways for international travel. In respect to that, the committee was informed that although the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority had budgeted for Shs 10 billion, it was allocated only Shs 1.8 billion, leaving a gap of Shs 8 billion. The committee takes cognisance of the revenue that Uganda Civil Aviation Authority would contribute to the economy, especially through the tourism sector, both international and local, if the aerodromes are well maintained and fully operational. We, therefore, recommend that the Government provides additional Shs 8.1 billion towards maintenance of the aerodromes. 12.0 Kampala Capital City Authority a. Disparities in Project Implementation Costs The committee noted with concern that KCCA was concurrently implementing road projects of similar scope at varying costs, despite the projects being in different divisions.

17126 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION In respect to that, the committee recommends that the Ministry of Works and Transport should expedite the completion of the study on unit cost of roads construction so that it can assist implementing agencies standardise road costing to ensure transparency and accountability in future road construction projects. The study should be completed and the report shared with Parliament within six months of adoption of this recommendation. b. Management of ongoing Construction Works The committee recommends as follows: i) KCCA should ensure proper traffic management, effective dust control measures during ongoing works, and adequate protection in areas with deep excavation. ii) Ensure contractors undertake proper forward maintenance of all the roads under construction, as well as diversions; and iii) Ensure adequate notification to inform road users on upcoming closures in a timely manner. c. Stormwater Management and Drainage Systems The committee was concerned about the stormwater management and capacity of the drainage systems in Kampala. The recent rains, especially on 26 March 2025, demonstrated poor stormwater management and inadequate drainage systems that led to flash floods. In respect to that, Mr Speaker, the committee recommends that the Government should: i) Prioritise implementation of the Kampala Capital City Drainage Master Plan by allocating sufficient funds to improve drainage infrastructure; and ii) Explore innovative solutions to mitigate flood risks in Kampala and surrounding areas. d. Delays in the completion of construction projects The committee notes with concern that there have been delays in the completion of some of the ongoing projects. In respect to that, the committee recommends as follows: i) KCCA should ensure the availability of adequate funds for relocation of utilities, before commencement of projects, and expedite the removal of all utilities. In addition, sufficient funding should be provided for compensation of the Project- Affected Persons to expedite project completion and minimise delays. ii) KCCA Contract Management Team and other oversight agencies should closely monitor contractors’ progress to ensure effective resource mobilisation and provide adequate lighting to facilitate implementation of the night shifts, to facilitate timely completion of the Kampala City Road Rehabilitation Project. iii) KCCA should fast-track the enforcement of existing regulations on parking in buildings to decongest streets of cars. Several structures have basement parking that have been converted into stores that no longer serve their intended purposes; and iv) KCCA should design and develop designated parking lots and stopovers for buses and taxis at strategic locations throughout the city to help mitigate the disorganisation and congestion in the city. This would improve traffic flow and enhance overall urban mobility. e. Designs of Roads in Kampala The committee noted with concern that the designs of numerous roads are inadequate, unresponsive and not in tandem with the increased traffic.

17127 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 In respect to that, the committee recommends that KCCA should: i) Expedite its proposed interventions to create paved walkways by covering existing drainage channels as per the design, in order to enhance pedestrian safety and mobility in Greater Kampala areas; ii) Develop and implement a requirement for buildings located near roads to pave any undeveloped space in front of the building extending up to the road, including the drainage channel. This would address the challenge of open drainage channels alongside roads and enhance pedestrian safety and mobility. 0. Design Reviews In respect to that, the committee recommends that the Ministry of Works and Transport should: i) Review and update design standards and guidelines in light of the changing environmental and demographic factors. In this regard, it should promote the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure with the capacity to withstand the changing climate. ii) Ensure prioritisation of project planning and design to reduce costly reviews once implementation commences. 11.1 Delayed Absorption of Loans from Development Partners Mr Speaker, there has been scrutiny on the delayed absorption of loans from development partners. I am not going to go through this, as you guided, but allow me to give our recommendations in respect to this. The committee, therefore: i) Recommends and urges the Government to adopt automated procurement processes to reduce delays in the procurement of contractors for civil works and corruption- related syndicates that lead to lengthy project approvals; and ii) Recommends that the Government ought to ensure timely disbursement and utilisation of project funds. This will save the Government from incurring huge sums of money in commitment fees. 11.2 Non-compensation of Project-Affected Persons (PAPs) In respect to that, the committee recommends and urges the Government to ensure prompt compensation, pursuant to Article 26 of the Constitution of Uganda, of all outstanding PAPs, and prioritise the release of funds for outstanding compensation. This will mitigate costs associated with compensation delays and ensure that Uganda’s rights are protected. 11.3 High Cost of Financing for Local Contractors In respect to that, the committee recommends and urges: i) The Government to enhance the current Uganda Development Bank Limited’s Ugandan Contractors Financing Initiative to make it more inclusive by increasing the annual limit from Shs 150 billion to Shs 500 billion, and offer both contract and trade financing solutions at an interest rate of at least 5 per cent per annum; and ii) That the Government ought to facilitate the acquisition of a construction guarantee pool of Shs 500 billion in state-owned commercial banks to enable national providers recommended by the Contractors’ Association to access the required bid, performance and payment guarantees to secure work. 11.4 Delayed Government Projects Kampala-Jinja Expressway The procurement process for the Kampala- Jinja Expressway was initiated in May 2018.

17128 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 The project remains incomplete to date due to delays in approving the Partial Risk Guarantee requested by pre-qualified consortia. In respect to this, the committee recommends and urges the Government to prioritise this project and ensure that land acquisition is strongly prioritised in the short term. The project is very crucial due to the fact that it is meant to decongest the Kampala-Jinja Highway. The Standard Gauge Railway The committee noted that the Government’s commitment to providing and releasing adequate funds for Project-Affected Persons’ compensation on this project remains sluggish, years after the launch in 2014 and its implementation since 2016. Delayed acquisition of the right-of-way has financial implications, since some Project- Affected Persons may require revaluation of their land. This has cost implications for the taxpayer. This is evidenced in the way that there is an ongoing reassessment of sections between parts of Buikwe to Kampala. Busega-Mpigi Expressway The committee recommends and urges Government to reduce risk of payment and contractor accumulation of interest claims on delayed payments by acting expeditiously. Works on the new Kampala inland port at Bukasa The committee recommends that the Ministry of Works and Transport should: i) Expedite the completion of all outstanding Phase 1 works, (including the dredging and swamp reclamation) in order to pave the way for the commencement of other project phases; ii) Ensure that the Ministry of Finance completes payment of all affected persons, fully secures the project site from access by all compensated Project-Affected-Persons (PAPs), unauthorised occupants and evicts any illegal occupants; and iii) Establish a full resource technical PIC to facilitate progress on the project and clear any outstanding claims by the consultants. 1.5 Loopholes in the provision of ferry services The committee recommended the following: i) The Government should undertake long-term, comprehensive, countrywide planning, including needs assessment, demand projection and cost implication to inform prioritisation and optimisation of ferry service provision; and ii) Regularly assess and compare the efficiency of ferries across Uganda, to identify opportunities for improvement and optimisation. 1.6 Upgrade of Bridges in the country The committee recommends the following: i. That the Government provides timelines on the proposed new bridge over Karuma, including: expected completion of feasibil - ity studies, necessary approval processes, preliminary and final designs, leading to the commencement of works in June 2026; and ii. Immediately implement the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), indicating the land acquisition for the bridge, funding for the RAP and compensation to the project- affected individuals. 1.7 National road projects with minimal budget provision The committee recommends that the Government avails additional resources for the implementation of these crucial projects. Mr Speaker, as I had earlier indicated, the committee also scrutinised the budget performance of the Sustainable Urbanisation

I see Hon. Musasizi walking to interrupt you, yet my question also goes straight to him. I come from the Rwenzori region. Everything we do in this country regarding roads is always planned and budgeted for. The road that connects Kampala to the greater Fort Portal City is the worst in the country, East Africa, Africa, and the world. It is the only road that connects to the only tourism city we have in this country. This road has been talked about several times. I want to ask the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the Minister of Works and Transport what they are doing for this road. As we speak, the contractor has abandoned the road. That is the road that the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance use, but recently, they have shifted to using the Hoima road, meaning that they have abandoned us to suffer. Mr Speaker –

The road from Mityana to Kyenjojo is the worst in the country, East Africa and the world. That is the road that the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the Prime Minister and Minister of State for Works and Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, use. Recently, they have switched to using Hoima Road to go to Kakumiro instead of the major road. When elderly people are moving to Kampala, we no longer use that road. When we have patients, ambulances use the Hoima Road – (Member timed out.)

Mr Speaker, I thank the chairperson and the committee for the good job. I expected to hear from the chairperson about the Standard Gauge Railway connectivity from Malaba to Majanji via Busia Municipality. They have been very silent on that matter. Moreover, it is one of the key burn - ing issues that will make President Museveni get more votes in Busia Municipality. At the same time, there is a lot of anxiety among the people of Busia. They want to hear from the Government on the 18 kilometre road from Lumino-Buhehe connecting Mulwanda for the new customs border post. In Kenya, they have already put up a very good tarmac road from Funyula up to Mulwanda. As I talk, the Minis - ter of East African Affairs has promised people that any time, the customs entry point is going to be open. At the same time, Busia Municipality, where I lead, is the gateway to Uganda but we have very few roads that are tarmacked. I am happy that the Minister of State for Works and Transport (Works), Hon. Ecweru, has one leg in Busia and when he was there, he promised my people that we shall be given more kilometres of tarmac roads but I have not heard anything about this. Moreover, with the large number of trailers that cross via Busia Municipality to Kenya, I do not know what answers we shall give our people. I, therefore, seek his attention on this matter because the committee is silent about it. Lastly, the Government should be sympathetic to the people who use the Jinja-Kampala Highway - (Member timed out.)

Mr Speaker, I rise on three issues. First, I appreciate the committee chairperson. On page 37, he reports that the Aleles Bridge is complete. I am here to report and also inform the minister that the Aleles Bridge is still not passable. It is wrong to report that it is complete. That is connecting Pallisa to Ngora. Secondly, Tirinyi-Pallisa-Mukongoro-Kumi Road. On Saturday, the 12 th of this month, I was travelling back to Kampala and three people were knocked dead at the junction of Mukongoro to Ngora. I add my voice to that of the area Member of Parliament that we need speed limit checks or humps - the minister knows the language very well. Lastly, Mukongoro-Ngora-Kapiri-Soroti Road needs to be upgraded because it is a Central Government road. I beg to submit.

Mr Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity. I would like to thank the committee for the report. I am glad that Hon. Musa Ecweru, the minister, is here. He promised to come to West Nile; he has never come one year later. I hope you will give us a report on your plan for the Nebbi-Arua Road. I almost died on that road yesterday morning as I was coming here. It has life-threatening potholes. Give us a report of what your plan is. Secondly, Mr Speaker, the committee reported that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has budgeted Shs 10 billion for the maintenance of upcountry aerodromes. The available money is Shs 1.8 billion, yet they need about Shs 8.2 billion to do it. Last financial year, CAA budgeted Shs 20 billion to work on the Arua Aerodrome runway. The ministry stopped them. They took their company called East of Eden to do a feasibility study. One year and three months later, there is not even one page of a feasibility study. The money that was budgeted was later diverted to Jinja. The ministry needs to tell us what their plan is. Are they doing it deliberately? That airport is the second busiest domestic airline airport after Entebbe. What is your plan? Are you frustrating us? What do you want us to do? Do you want us to walk to Kampala so that you feel these guys are really strong? Honourable minister, the country should improve all the transport systems so that we can grow. If you go to Tanzania, the domestic routes are operating very well because all the airports in the regions are working very well – (Member timed out.)

Thank you. Honourable member, you do not need to walk to Kampala for you to be seen as strong. He can see you are strong. When you look at him, you see he is a very strong man. However, Hon. Ecweru, Hon. Feta raises a critical issue. I just wanted to know about Mbarara. When are you reopening Mbarara Aerodrome? Also, these aerodromes you are making are small. When I see Uganda Airlines rushing abroad - If they could start with the domestic ones, the money they would make - it is even much more sustainable. (Applause) Just local ones, but that will only be possible if you could enlarge the existing infrastructure. I heard you are trying to make one in Kanungu. For God’s sake, you have a private individual who put in a lot of money to put up an airstrip. Why don’t you tarmac that for now so that the tourists can be going to Kanungu and show support for the private sector? You have supported many. I saw Mr Garuga Musinguzi’s airstrip. If you could work it out with him and you tarmac it, the tourists would be landing there. You would make money. Hon. Rutahigwa, followed by Hon. Gabriel Okumu and Hon. John Faith Magolo.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to thank the committee for the report. However, when you look at the Bugisu sub-region and you see the terrain – yes, for example, last year you provided Shs 7 billion per district. When all that is put, the following day it is all swept away by the rains. We have always asked in our plan, and why can’t we provide low-cost sealing for those roads? We can go slowly, but we shall reach there because you put it there today, and the following day it is all washed away, and we go back to zero. That should inform our planning as a ministry so that we can use our meagre resources for the good of our country. Secondly, I wonder, honourable minister, what road you use when you are going to Soroti or Teso. If you use the Jinja highway, I think it is important that we get timelines about the Jinja- Kampala Highway so that we know what we are talking about. The road that brings every good into this country, and you sit there overnight trying to access the city. It is embarrassing, honourable minister. Thank you very much.

17139 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 Two, this Shs 1 billion for road maintenance in the districts is a gift to some technical officers in the districts and cities because Arua City and other cities in the country have no road equipment, I have not seen the committee come up strongly with a budget for road equipment for the 10 cities in this country. It would be prudent for them to have that factored in. Lastly, the ongoing construction works in the country; I have two points to mention to the committee. As I was driving from Arua to Kampala, between Olwiyo and Karuma – the minister communicated that after the rehabilitation of Karuma Bridge, Ayago and Karuma were opened. Honourable minister, you did not provide road safety signs on the road. One side of the Ayago Bridge has no guards. There are just a few poles – (Member timed out.)

17144 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 Ziroobwe to Wobulenzi Road. Every campaign time, they put machinery there to show that something is going on. Up to now, you cannot cross to Kayunga via Luwero. Nakasongola is becoming a city soon but you cannot cross from Kikyusa to Nakasongola because of floods. Now, here, we are saying, we are planning, we are appropriating. Honourable minister sir, here we are. We are planning, we expect the best. Even the quality of work is wanting. We allocate money, but the work we get is not the best. That is why we are suffering in Kampala. The roads are constructed today, but you will cry tomorrow for the Government to come. For what? Two, there is Uganda Airlines. We appropriate money for it, but the returns are the best. Rethink about it. Then, on compensation, many rich people are paid - (Member timed out.)

17145 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 Whenever I check with the contractor, he says you have failed to compensate the Project- Affected Persons and that has occasioned a delay, year after year. There is an extension of the project. I would like to know from the committee whether you have interrogated it. Equally, when it comes to delayed absorption of loans, this costs the taxpayer because these loans have to be repaid. One instance is to do with the stretch of Mpererwe-Kiteezi road under the Kampala Capital City Authority. I do not see the Minister for Kampala, but I guess the available ministers can ably answer. What happened? This Parliament appropriated money for that road years ago. Till now, no work has commenced. Is there any provision in the report to do with that particular road? It covers a very sensitive area, the Kiteezi landfill, where the Government of Uganda killed the people for failure to take over and safeguard the people from the landfill. They had to break people’s houses to access the landfill, yet Parliament appropriated money for it. Let us save lives; construct the road – (Interjection) - which order? (Laughter)

Before this report is sent to the Budget Committee, let us take some time and scrutinise it so that we address all these issues at once. To conclude the matter I raised here, I asked whether this certificate of climate change was there. However, I found that I it has become a ritual just to write letters like this. There are no district climate action plans, no national climate action plans and we even do not know how much money will be put into climate action. Traffic congestion, as I said, is costing Shs 1.5 billion in Kampala but there is no action. So, if we pass this kind of thing, what kind of Parliament shall we be? We are all stuck in congestion on the streets of Kampala, killing four hours then you come and pass this kind of thing saying that it must go to the Budget Committee for harmonisation? Ugandans from today onwards are going to query what kind of MPs we are, thank you.

Thank you. Mr Speaker, well aware that you are a student of economic law, the traffic jam in Uganda is becoming a serious issue. We have bankable projects. The Kampala-Jinja Expressway is one of the most bankable projects that we have in the country, just like the Entebbe Expressway, one of the most expensive roads in Uganda. By the time they were thinking about the Entebbe Expressway, they thought it would generate a mere Shs 2 billion per month. To date, as I speak, Entebbe Expressway generates over Shs 3.8 billion every month. I believe that the Kampala-Jinja Expressway would be even four times higher. In a traffic jam in Uganda, we lose 240,000 man-hours every day, according to Colas Limited, a UK-based company. This comes to Shs 10 trillion every year. Some of us are economists. Just think about that. For the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, up to now, we do not know how much we are supposed to compensate people. When you look critically at the recommendation of the committee, just urging the Government to prioritise this without even noting how much the Project Affected Persons (PAPs) require is a mess. Therefore, I thank you, but also request you to give details on the expressway. We spend – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to appreciate the committee and the chairperson, my brother, Tony Awany, for presenting an elaborate report. Mr Speaker, for the first time, I would like to appreciate the Minister of Works and Transport and his ministry as far as Karuma is concerned. This time, you kept your word and followed the exact timeframe you had given. (Applause) I pray that for all Government projects like roads and bridges, the timeframe should be kept the way you did for that one. We have many roads across the country. The committee should have prioritised the roads in an equal and balanced manner. All districts need good tarmac roads. His Excellency, the President, promised very many roads across the country. For example, in my district, His Excellency promised to construct the Awer- Amuru-Rhino Camp Road, together with a constructing ferry at Rhino Camp. However, up to now, we are not seeing the work done. The committee should have looked at the important roads across the country. Some roads connect districts, but are not all that important because the traffic is not heavy on those roads. You should have prioritised the heavy traffic roads. On the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, I recall that in the 10 th Parliament, we borrowed money for this – (Member timed out.)

Honourable members, you know the procurement issue that came with the Kampala-Jinja Expressway. It is an issue that we have been handling on the Floor.

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. I thank the committee chairperson and members for the detailed report. I will start from where my honourable colleague stopped, on the Standard Gauge Railway. I have two minutes, so I have to rap. Concerning the Standard Gauge Railway, honourable minister, I would like to find out when you are going to pay those people who have not yet been paid? On the issue of Amber Court, Budondo- Mbulamuti, as my honourable colleague, said, year in, year out, we have been hearing about it. It is number 52 on the project supposed to be worked on and we are hoping that you work on it this time you work on it. Honourable minister, I would like to inform you that right now, the road is impassable because of the rain. I thank the committee and the members for appreciating that the Jinja-Kampala Express Highway should be a priority road, but as we wait for the main express highway, the road is in a bad state, with lots of accidents and traffic jams. It is impassable. Honourable minister, we need answers. One honourable colleague talked about the contracts that were ongoing during the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) time, before we took it back to the ministry. We have the Magamaga-Iziru-Namagera Road. Honourable minister, we need answers because that road has to be worked on. The committee talked about people encroaching on the Uganda Civil Aviation land. I think most times, people sleep on the job. How do these guys encroach? We leave people to encroach on government land, build there, then we come and say, “Please vacate.” What happens? Who is responsible? When these people are encroaching, why do government people sit back and sleep on the job? Afterwards, they come and destroy people’s property and send back packing.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Government for the Shs 1 billion grant. However, some of that money is used to hire excavators. I would like this House to think about giving money for buying excavators per district. An excavator can go for Shs 500 million, and when you calculate by 146 districts, that is about Shs 73 billion; it is workable. Secondly, I have issues with roads, for example, the Lumbugu- Lyantonde Road. However, whenever we go to finance, we are told that there are no funds. Here are the funds, Mr Speaker. Everyone has talked about the Jinja-Kampala Express Highway. It is a Public-Private Partnership Project (PPP). We have to investigate and think about PPPs in this country. The Public-Private Partnership Project alone on that project, which is about $1 billion, increases the cost by about 20 per cent. Why don’t we have economic analysts from the ministries of finance and that of works to present to us when it is fully public and PPP? We shall solve the problem and save about 20 per cent. The traffic jam along Jinja Road alone contributes a 6 per cent loss of GDP in Uganda. We have to solve it once and for all. I beg to submit.

17154 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 of ferries, then I knew that the report was made by the able leadership of the infrastructure committee. I stood here several times, reminding the Government how the President came to my constituency in 1996 and promised a ferry to Kome. Mr Ecweru was touched. He called me and convinced me thoroughly - and I was convinced, Mr Ecweru, I am here, where is the ferry to Kome? To make matters worse, when they are testing ferries for other areas, they use Kome water and then take them away. No, Mr Ecweru, we are both here, and you are reading the budget. Where is the ferry to Kome? The best we see is NRM moving around to restore the lost love. They say we no longer love them, so they must restore the love. Come to Kome and ask for that lost love. Love without action is dead. (Laughter) Mr Speaker, let us not behave like the Bourbon Monarch, who forgot nothing and learned nothing. Why are you forgetting everything and learning nothing? For 30 years, you have made that promise, but nothing has been done. Let us not forget the floods that have been happening around Kampala. Right now, because the floods have stopped, we are quiet. We are forgetting everything and learning nothing. I was almost happy because one citizen had to change his route and is now using Munyonyo Road because of the catastrophe that happened. Now, he has gone back. Chairperson, we abused him- (Member timed out.)

Members are talking about the Kampala-Jinja Highway. But another nightmare is the road from Jinja to Nakalama. It is a 40-kilometre stretch, but you can use more than 3 hours. So, when we are planning for Kampala-Jinja, we also need to plan for the Nakalama stretch. Short of that, I do not think it is going to solve the problem. Secondly, the Government decided to forcefully acquire people’s land for resettlement in the areas of Kibaale and others. But many people are demanding money from the Land Fund, and some of these cases date back as far as the 1990s. You are compensating a person whose valuation was done in 1999, and giving them money. So, honourable minister for lands - I should divert from the roads. Really, is that value for money? Some of them are even trying to look around to get money, yet they have taken their titles. I have a family in Kakumiro. They took their title, one of the family members is very sick and wants to go for treatment abroad, yet they are not paying them; they cannot go to the bank to borrow. So, the other day, my in-law was saying - (Member timed out.)

17159 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 16 APRIL 2025 However, let us come to what the Constitution says in the National Objectives and Directive Principles XII on balanced and equitable development. It says in (iii) thus: “The State shall take special measures in favour of the development of the least developed areas.” That is where I concur with Hon. Kwizera’s submission when he says that it seems even when we have a whole directorate of planning, we do not seem to have had a standardised - even minimum standards of planning. There is a huge conundrum in all this. You are talking, for instance, of a mountainous terrain like the Bugisu and Sebei sub-regions. Now, a bridge that your ministry recently purported to give - they were playing on the psychology of the leaders - (Interjections) - yes, that they had dispatched a team to assess the magnitude of damage - a bridge, which connects to Bududa Hospital. Actually, it has now cut off Manafwa, Namisindwa and Kenya. When River Tsutsu burst its banks, it washed away this very important bridge. We eventually proved that you had not dispatched any team. I am sure you have not even visited it. I do not know whether, in your plans, you are about to go there. The truth of the matter is that now, Bugisu Subregion, particularly that area of Bududa, is recording the highest maternal mortality rates. Even if you talk of roads, there are places where you cannot construct them. We have seen Members here advancing for ferries. Indeed, you have done well in that area. However, in your planning, what are you going to do for areas with mountainous terrain, where you cannot ferry a mother in labour from some valley, up a hill and down to the hospital? We had earlier mooted a plan of at least an aircraft, but we do not even see it in the National Development Plan (NDP) IV. This Bududa Circular Road, which is much awaited and hyped, has appeared in the budget almost seven times – Hon. Mudimi can bear me witness – but it mysteriously disappeared, yet this is a very important road. As we talk, the cost of doing business on this road is extremely high. We get so many Kenyan trucks, and now they can no longer access Bududa. Most of the produce there, of course, is perishable. Farmers are counting losses. Mr Speaker, I have just realised how much we are spending, as Uganda, on commitment fees on the Kampala-Jinja Expressway. If it is above Shs 6 billion, I do not know whether the ministry can see that as a huge haemorrhage of the meagre resources that the country needs to fix roads that are in a deplorable state – and they are numerous. Thank you, Mr Speaker. I beg to submit.

17172 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 Uganda Health Professions Assessment Board (UHPAB) Recommendation The committee recommends that the Accountant-General grant UHPAB vote status for efficient execution of its duties, like all the other assessment boards. Supervision and monitoring of the Nursing and Midwifery Field Recommendation The committee recommends that the finance ministry allocate additional funding of Shs 9.55 billion to UHPAB to fully monitor, as part of the examinations, students while at clinical placement sites. Physical construction of the office block Recommendation The committee recommends that the ministry for finance allocate Shs 26.7 billion to UHPAB to construct a new office block, simulation skills labs, an IT centre, storage space, confinement hostels and conference facilities in the Kyambogo site in a phased manner, starting Financial Year 2025/2026. Procurement of the printing equipment Recommendation The committee recommends that the ministry for finance allocate Shs 0.82 billion for the procurement of the printing equipment, including the computer to plate machine and cutting machine. National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), especially the A-level curriculum Recommendation The committee recommends that the ministry for finance allocate Shs 6 billion to fast-track the development and implementation of the new A-level curriculum. Inadequate training on teaching the lower secondary curriculum Recommendation On the inadequate training on teaching the lower secondary curriculum, the committee recommends that the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) be supported with additional funds to ensure that all teachers are trained in the lower school curriculum, to ensure effective implementation of the new lower secondary curriculum and the activities of the curriculum implementation. Domestic arrears The committee also recommends that the ministry for finance allocates an additional Shs 1.309 billion to the centre to cater for the accumulated arrears. Inadequate staffing levels Recommendation The committee recommends that the centre should be supported with additional Shs 1.08 billion for wages in order to recruit an additional 15 staff to improve its staffing levels to at least 63 per cent. On Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) About seed schools, the committee recommends an additional Shs 3 billion to be allocated to KCCA to purchase land for the construction of a city school in Nakawa division. On Phillip Omondi Stadium The committee recommends further that the ministry for finance, as per the Public Finance Management Act (Amended), 2015 Section 23(2), avails the remaining funds of Shs 39 billion to KCCA to complete the construction of Phillip Omondi Stadium at Lugogo.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. When we talk about education in this country, it pains me a lot because when you move throughout the country and you look at the status of the schools in this country, most especially the primary schools. Some pupils are still studying under trees in the very country that we are in. Some teachers are still sleeping in grass-thatched houses. Some children are still sitting on the floor. They have classrooms that have not even been worked on. The children are sitting in the dust, and you expect such a child to come and compete with children who are in Kampala. I think in the country that we are developing; education is meant for the children of the rich. We have left the children of the poor to remain in the village, and they will never come to Kampala or even join Makerere. As a country, I was born in the NRM Government, but I am UPC by blood. If we are to remember some of the schools that were built in the Obote Government, how was the education sector in the Obote Government? Children were picked from Mitooma, some villages, very far from Kampala. Children of the villagers, children whose fathers cannot pay school fees, but because they are bright, they were brought from their villages. Some of them, even their parents, have never seen Kampala, but were brought by the Government to come and study under Government sponsorship. Now, when we are talking about the Government - (Member timed out.)

17196 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 from the indigenous districts; the teachers coming from those very districts, so that we can maintain them in the schools. When you recruit teachers from far districts, for example, a teacher to operate in Gulu but coming from Kampala, the chances of this person leaving, not operating in Gulu, are high or going there one day only – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. The matter I am raising is in regard to the minimum entry requirements for students who are going to enrol for certificate medical courses; that is, nursing, midwifery, lab, and others. Mr Speaker, in the old curriculum, the student was required to have a pass as the minimum entry requirement. In the new curriculum, the minimum or a pass is equivalent to a “D”. However, the Government has run adverts IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 27TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.10 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

17007 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 15 APRIL 2025 for the community health extension workers programme, to strengthen disease prevention and promotion of public health activities. Vote 134 – Health Services Commission The committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development provides Shs 3 billion for the procurement of vehicles for the board members of the Health Services Commission, in a phased manner, starting with Shs 1 billion in the coming financial year. Vote 127: Uganda Virus Research Institute The committee was informed that the Uganda Virus Research Institute has five acres of land at Kamwanyi in Entebbe, which is occupied by bonafide occupants, who have made it impossible for it to develop. The committee recommends that Shs 5.4 billion be provided to Uganda Virus Research Institute to pay off the bonafide occupants, and secure the land for development. On page 25, there is inadequate funding for research. We can go straight to the recommendations. They need an additional Shs 1.6 billion for research. The second is that the Uganda Virus Research Institute mandate should be amended to cover bacteria, viruses, protozoa, insects, and other microorganisms. You may think that they deal only with viruses, but there are also some other microorganisms. Uganda Heart Institute We can go to page 26. The newly approved staff structure is understaffed, and wages are an issue. The committee recommends that an additional wage amounting to Shs 22.89 billion be provided to Uganda Heart Institute to enable them to fully operationalise the new approved staff structure, and enable timely functionalisation of the newly expanded Heart Institute complex, located in Naguru. Super specialised training The committee recommends that an additional Shs 0.56 billion be provided for the training. The training takes about three to five years. On the regional cardiac centres, there are two established cardiac centres. There is land in Hoima and in Mbarara, but they need - if you can go to the recommendations, you will see that Shs 51 billion for the construction of the two cardiac centres. Power connection to the new home in Naguru The committee recommended that Shs 2.8 billion be provided to Uganda Heart Institute to connect the new Naguru Centre to a dedicated power line. The Uganda Cancer Institute It has two centres, one in Gulu and the other in Mbarara. The committee recommends that Shs 7.1 billion be provided to enable the Uganda Cancer Institute to operationalise the Gulu and Mbarara centres. This will help bring cancer services closer to the people in order to decongest the main cancer centre in Mulago. Inadequate medical supplies for the Cancer Institute They need Shs 15.9 billion to be provided. There is the issue of funding for the Fred Hutch Centre. The Uganda Cancer Institute Fred Hutch Centre in Kampala was established with funding from the US Government. The committee was informed that USAID funding for the Fred Hutch Research Centre had come to an end. They needed Shs 6.5 billion, and only Shs 1 billion was provided. In the recommendations, they need Shs 5.5 billion extra. Staff wages - they are understaffed. The committee recommends that Shs 42 billion be provided to Uganda Cancer Institute, in a phased manner, beginning with Shs 10 billion.

17011 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 15 APRIL 2025 (iii) The Ministry of Health should develop and disseminate comprehensive up to date guidelines to stabilise private wing operations. (iv) The Ministry of Health should provide the current private wing policy and guidelines that prohibit the recruitment of contract staff. The contract staff can be purposely used in private wing services. 6. Functionalisation of lower health facilities. Recommendations (i) The ministry should deliberately improve services and supervision of lower facilities. (ii) They should build capacity. (iii) They should carry out community mobilisation to build trust in lower facilities and also finance should release funds timely. 7. Increased C-section Recommendations (i) The Ministry of Health should develop and implement strict national guidelines. (ii) The ministry should monitor health facilities’ C-section rates. (iii) The Ministry of Health should equip health centres with the necessary resources to support normal deliveries. (iv) The ministry should publish annual reports on C-section rates. (v) The ministry should educate communities on the benefits of normal delivery. 8. The National Health Insurance Scheme Bill Recommendation (i) The ministry should fast-track the National Health Insurance Bill. 9. Access to medical services by refugees. Recommendations (i) The Ministry of Health should come up with a clear policy on access to medical services by refugees and foreigners. (ii) The Ministry of Health should foster collaboration with neighbouring countries to share information and resources about these outbreaks and also create joint task forces to manage cross-border health threats. (iii) Some districts like Kampala, Nebbi, Yumbe, and Koboko, which are refugee- affected transit districts, should be considered to benefit from refugee- hosting district projects. 10. The current burden of sickle cell disease Recommendations (i) The National Medical Store budget for sickle cell medicines should be increased. They need an additional Shs 1 billion. (ii) The different hospitals should prioritise the procurement of hydroxyurea. (iii) The Ministry of Health should strengthen all existing sickle cell clinics within the regional hospitals. (iv) National and regional hospitals should prioritise…

17012 APPROVAL OF BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2025/2026 health workers, in addition to improvement in the health-care delivery system. The committee recommends that a total of Shs 3.2 trillion, excluding Kampala Capital City Authority, the Uganda Aids Commission, and local Government PHC, of which Shs 1.628 trillion is recurrent. It includes; pension, gratuity, and arrears and Shs 1.61 trillion is development expenditure. The budget allocation for the health sector is shown in the table below. Mr Speaker, I beg to report.

Thank you, Mr Speaker and allow me to thank the committee as well. If we mentioned in this House that Kampala could be one of the hard-to-reach areas, we would all be amused. Kiruddu Hospital is not reachable. Just last week –

Mr Speaker, in the recommendations, I did not hear Kampala but the fact is that we lose more than four hours in traffic jam and this is caused by Gen. Museveni - (Interjections) - They block the road for four hours. Literally in Kampala, we lose more than six hours in traffic jam. Part of the critical people that want to access health centres like Kiruddu – Just two weeks back, we lost a gentleman around Nsambya, very near the hospital. They could see the hospital, but the road was blocked for two hours and people could not access the hospital. This is general. Kiruddu is one of the referral hospitals but people cannot access it because on a daily basis, the road is closed for four hours. I call on the ministers; maybe Gen. Museveni does not know the pain that the people are going through at the expense of him travelling to Kampala. Let him find other means or else, we are losing very many people. So far, we have - (Interjections) – Yes, colleagues, this is something that looks minor but we need to look at the – (Interruptions)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I will also re-echo the same plea by the chairperson of the committee and the committee, they suggested that the Shs 100 billion which is owed to national water by Government should be discussed and be allowed at least to pay VAT for National Water and Sewage Cooperation. That is a lot much money and it has affected the supply of water in most areas, especially the rural areas where water has not been extended, which is almost everyone’s problem here. Secondly, I have read in the report that the National Environment Management Authority in Uganda, especially in Kampala, only has one staff to try and help them enforce environment conservation in the city, which has led to the delay of issuing out environmental assessment certificates to those who wish to construct their buildings in Uganda, that is too much. In Kampala, people submit plans for environmental assessment and they take two years. That forces them to construct buildings without an environmental assessment certificate and then later NEMA comes and destroys their property. This is a problem and leads to loss of finances by our people. Therefore, if they have only asked for Shs 10 billion, we should recommend that they provide that Shs 10 billion so that they can enforce the national environment management offices in the city and all other areas in Uganda and easily protect the environment in our country. Thank you.

17071 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 15 APRIL 2025 Shs 1.8 billion, yet we are facing a lot of destruction of natural resources in the country by the local people and international people as well. If you drive from the Catholic shrine in Munyonyo, Nkaddebakyala up to Kajjansi, you realise that National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) recently evicted people who had built along the swamp. There is life now because people are no longer there and in Lubigi as well. I am requesting the House to allocate more money to NEMA for restoration and enforcement, so that we save our environment from interference by the local people. Finally, there are very many petrol stations mushrooming lately in residential areas. I do not know who is in charge of issuing licences to these petrol stations, especially in residential areas in Kampala and other areas. The ministry also has to explain to us why they are issuing licences to companies or organisations to construct petrol stations in residential areas. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Before the encroachment of Kei Natural Forest, our home was the last home towards the forest but I saw people encroaching on this forest while the officials of the National Forest Authority were watching on. It appears as if it is a strategy because once people deplete this part of the forest, they go and start planting eucalyptus and teak. It is as if the encroachment is a good strategy for them to deplete the forest, then they go ahead and plant these other species and yet these have been a natural resource and natural trees. Therefore, when you go there, the indigenous tree species are disappearing while they are planting new ones. The question is, “Who are those who are planting these trees?” They have not come out clearly. It is as if there are people within the National Forestry Authority who look into this and use it as a strategy to plant their own trees. I, therefore, do not support this. Hon, Ann Adeke had said here that many of these people who deal in charcoal come all the way from Northern Uganda up to Kampala and the dealers keep on bribing. Actually, the people who have been bribed are National Forestry Authority staff. Therefore, claiming that they need more money for protection, I do not support this because I see what they do. When they were – (Member timed out.)

I thank you, Mr Speaker, and the committee for a good report. I agree with the debate that we need affirmative action for electricity in Uganda because it forms the backbone of the development of this country. We really need it. We still have many sub-counties that are not connected, including some in Terego. They are not connected and yet we had the TBEA. Mr Speaker, I agree with you. We need an investigation into the TBEA Project because very many kilometres of the TBEA Project got lost, and many of them are on people’s farms. They are diverted to connect farms in this country instead of connecting subcounties. Therefore, we need an investigation into the whole project to see where the lines went. Mr Speaker, I will address myself to policy issues; the issue of net metering in this country. We do not have a policy on net metering. Net metering is where, if you have a renewable energy source in your home or your entity, you can be able to sell it to the grid when you have excess or buy when you have low. We need this policy to come in because many people have taken up renewable energy; they have a lot of power, but they do not know where to source, and they could earn from it. The other issue is the energy mix, which I think should be incorporated into the building board, especially for commercial houses. We could say that they should be able to generate 20 per cent of the power within a building so that we stop using generators in this city. We can start with Kampala and go to other cities. When power goes off, especially in Kampala, everybody goes to the generator. This is something we can avoid. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I have listened to a number of honourable colleagues and what comes out clearly is that there is mismanagement of projects within the Government. TBEA project money did not do anything, and now they are saying the country has arrears of over Shs 70 billion to pay. I would not want to invite Members to approve that without understanding what happened to the money that we borrowed, because the money we borrowed could have solved all those problems. To date, nobody is accounting for how that arrear arose. We have not seen people being prosecuted for mismanaging the project. We cannot have these things going on as usual. The other time we were talking about Umeme Limited, and the people who signed the Umeme Limited contract are among us; they are not from heaven. They made a raw deal and the country is paying a heavy price. I expected the committee to tell us about the money that Umeme Limited owes the Government, because we are here grappling with resources. The other time the minister was saying, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), which was supplying power to Umeme Limited, is owed Shs 512 billion for the supply of power. Why are we not reflecting that money anywhere? I expected the committee to give us innovative funding sources. For example, there is climate funding. I know the World Bank and African Development Bank have come together to electrify 300 million Africans. How are we going to tap into this? How are we swapping our climate commitments for support from the donors, who are ready to finance climate change? All those are not done. Key, Mr Speaker, is that if someone is looking for a sign of backwardness, they need to come to our country. Why do I say that? Up to 93 per cent of the population in Uganda depends on biomass such as charcoal for energy. We cook using it. Even people here in Kampala use it. When you cook using biomass, yet there is a gas cylinder, and you continue to tax gas and the cylinder, making it very expensive, it means you do not want to save the environment. The reason we are cutting down trees and some areas have become dry and our crops cannot perform well in certain areas is because there is no water. All that is happening because we are depending on biomass. Going forward, I invite us to increase that budget – (Member timed out.)

17098 APPROVAL OF BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2025/2026 Furniture and fittings The recommendation is that the Government halt budgeting for furniture and develop a new policy on the procurement of furniture with a view of creating uniformity in standards. The proposed budget for furniture and fittings for this financial year will be re-budgeted to enhance the salaries of primary school teachers. The next one is buildings It is noticed that the MDAs are either constructing or have planned to construct new offices and residential buildings. Other MDAs are also in the process of buying land. It has been observed that many buildings have been unduly delayed, with others spanning as many as 10 years. The following buildings, the IGG building, the new Parliament Chamber building, the JLO’s house, are all behind schedule. With some, like the Parliament Chambers, it was not even possible for the committee to verify the progress as reported. All previous attempts by the committee to visit the new chamber buildings were denied. The question is, what is that which is being hidden, yet an additional Shs 20 billion is planned? The irony of all this, therefore, firstly is to ask the question, what happened to the Government buildings used by the past Governments? Secondly, why is the Government happy to gift free land to private individuals around Kampala and turn around to require the taxpayers to pay to buy more land? The minority recommends that approval of budgets for the acquisition of land be withheld until the Government avails to Parliament the full inventory of all public lands in Uganda. Further, no funds should be approved for the new buildings anywhere until all buildings currently under construction are fully completed. It is further recommended that stalled and delayed buildings should be inspected and audited by the relevant authorities to establish the facts and appropriate recommendations be made before money is approved. Seminars, meetings and workshops It appears the modus operandi of the Government is organising seminars, workshops and meetings while offering zero service to citizens. Compared to other countries in East Africa, the Government of Uganda is a leading convener of workshops, seminars and meetings on a daily basis, whereas in Kenya, for example, it is the private sector that leads in hotel booking for workshops, seminars and meetings. A serious Government cannot spend the entire week, Monday to Friday, organising workshops, seminars and meetings at the expense of direct services to citizens. The minority, therefore, recommends that the Government reviews the budget on workshops, seminars and meetings with a view of scaling down and saving taxpayers, money with associated idleness and wastefulness. The next is the compensation of cattle in Lango, Acholi and Teso The minority recommends that the Government adopt a policy to pay all households a minimum uniform reparative payment of at least six cows per household. Two oxen for ploughing, two cows for milk nutrition and two for livelihood security. If I may add, Mr Speaker, the lack of milk in the entire Lango, Teso and Acholi has given people an opportunity to ridicule us in public, especially our ladies. People were asking our ladies why they do not have nyash , etcetera (Laughter) – how do we get it when we do not have milk to take? So, it is recommended that the Government –

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. Mine is about the grant-aiding of a school called Kworus Secondary School in Kwanyiny Subcounty. This is a school that has now taken about 30 years, and it was started by the community. It now has 924 students. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 26TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.05 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS ( The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16912 APPROVAL OF BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2025/2026 We started the data bank in the ministry for the emigrants who are out there. This financial year, which we are ending, we did not get the money to continue with the process. We pray that the funding for the data bank be enhanced so that we can continue with the process. In fact, we have already launched. As you enter the ministry now, just last week or two weeks ago, we have launched an area where we are going to be receiving the issues of emigrants, listening to them and for those who need support. The staff have already been recruited. They are going to be getting all the information. Unfortunately, some of our people, because of the porous borders, keep going on their own. When they have a problem, they come back to the Government. Those are very difficult to track. The ones who go through the right system, we can track them. Just as in her case, we have been able to track the matter because we got in touch with the institution that took her there. However, some of our young people, especially those from Busia and Bugisu areas, then those from the other side of Karamoja, just cross and then you hear them stranded because they do not have any documentation. And then for some young people who, after the two-year contract, because we give them two years, and they come back to their community. But after the two years, they begin thinking that they know that country and change to other areas different from where they were initially taken. We cannot track such a person because they were supposed to come back, but instead remained moving throughout the United Arab Emirates, and when they meet the Speaker, they say, “I am stranded here,” yet they have not come back to Uganda to apply afresh. So, there are also such cases. On the issues of negotiations, my minister is really busy with this. We are even trying to get to the European market to see how we can talk about professionals. How do we take them out there? We have also come up with bilateral agreements, which are strict, so as to help the immigrants who are out there. It is work in progress and we shall give a report here on what has come out of the meetings. On the issue of the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) - some people said, “It is not in my village.” I agree that all the money that we put in the first round went out and got finished. It is also true that the money did not go to all the regions. All of you will agree with me that the headquarters of banks are in Kampala. Some of those banks already had women’s facilities because that was one of the conditions for them to support us. For example, Finance Trust Uganda, DFCU Bank, and Centenary Bank have programmes for women. So, when they received the money, they already had women who were in businesses who grabbed 10 per cent because that was a very good deal for a businesswoman who already had a business. While we who came from Serere, like Hon. Asamo, were still waiting to move to the bank, we realised that the money had gone out. When we reported to the Cabinet, the President directed that we should regionalise this, and we are working on this. The remaining Shs 185 billion has to go to the regions. But we shall start with the 19 regions. The money will be allocated at that level through the same banks. The money will, therefore, be going to those districts in the next phase. This week, my GROW office met with the World Bank, and we agreed on the modalities. We are also negotiating for areas where there are no banks. For example, if people have a good cooperative society, money can be deposited there because we know districts – for example, in the Bukedi Subregion, where I come from, Butaleja District does not have a bank.

I am aware of that. Thank you. On behalf of the committee, I beg to present the committee’s report on the processing of Ministerial Policy Statements and budget estimates for the next financial year. I would not like to waste time. This report is under the agro-industrialisation programme. We have the overview, the programme strategic objectives, the budget allocation for this financial year and the Vote budget performance – that is, the half-year performance for this financial year as well as major Vote achievements. The report has been uploaded. Honourable colleagues can go through this because it is clear. Mr Speaker, I would like to go straight to the observations and recommendations of the committee. However, before I do that, I would like to highlight a very important concern under this agro-industrialisation programme, which is about making us not achieve our full potential as a sector. Agro-industrialisation programme is allocated 2.4 per cent of the national budget in this coming financial year, from 2.9 per cent in the approved budget of 2024/2025. Additionally, the allocation to the programme is 30 per cent less than the NDP IV projected allocation of Shs 2,448 billion. This is very key. Remember that our budget should be aligned with the NDP IV. However, in the agro-industrialisation programme, it is not aligned. Agriculture is a key driver of Uganda’s economy, accounting for 70 per cent of the employment, but contributing only 24.7 per cent of the GDP. This indicates that the sector is contributing way below its potential, as most production is low-value raw materials. In addition, most people involved in the sector produce for their subsistence, which is not captured in the GDP. The allocation is not a fair reflection of its importance to the economy and contradicts several governments’ international commitments towards agriculture funding. This calls for more investment in large-scale mechanisation, value addition, research and agro-processing, in line with the objective of the programme. I know very well we are members of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and we are signatories to the resolution that 10 per cent of the national budget should be allocated for the agricultural sector. In this regard, the committee recommends that the Government should raise the budget for agro-industrialisation programme in a phased manner – because we cannot say that we raise it to 10 per cent due to financial constraints – from the current 2.4 to at least 5 per cent in the medium term, with the view of attaining the 10-per cent allocation as outlined in the 2025 Kampala CAADP declaration, to which Uganda is a signatory. The Government should align the budgetary allocation for the agro-industrialisation programme with the NDP IV target of Shs 2,448 billion in order to meet the projected budget allocation and programme goals. MAAIF budget – this is Vote 010 MAAIF has absorbed the core functions of dissolved agencies, and it has not been fully funded in line with the original programming under these agencies. This is very key, Mr Speaker. The committee notes that the budget allocation for the programme has declined, as stated earlier, and there is need to really put this into consideration. The budget has actually reduced from Shs 1,128.5 billion to Shs 806.94 billion, despite taking on additional mandates. Instead of

Mr Speaker, I was saying that the committee was concerned about the underfunding of the agricultural sector; tte 2.4 percent vis-a-vis the 10 per cent. As a Government, we are part of three declarations: the Maputo Protocol, which we signed in 2003, the Malabo Declaration of 2014, and the recent Kampala Declaration of 2025. It is challenging. Aware that as a country, 70 per cent of the population is employed in the agricultural sector, we need commitment from the Government because we do not sign these protocols as a formality or a ritual. We need commitment from Government so that we fund the agricultural sector, which employs the biggest population in the country. Two is the issue of agricultural mechanisation. The report missed a point to show which land has been opened. Madam chairperson of the

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am also concerned about agricultural financing and accessibility to credit facilities. We made a resolution here in Parliament and the Government should act on that resolution which was taken by Parliament. The resolution said that the Government should establish an agricultural bank where the farmers can get affordable credit facilities. Mr Speaker, our farmers compete with business people in the commercial banks and yet the agricultural sector is vulnerable to climate changes. Lastly, I am also concerned about the importation of a lot of fertilisers from China, Netherlands and Kenya, aware that in 2018, the President and his Cabinet went to Tororo, Osukuru and opened a fertiliser facility but up to now, it has not been given enough funding to take off. What was the intention of the President moving from Kampala to Tororo to open up that facility? It was opened but at the end of the day, we have nothing from there and yet we are blessed as a country; we have phosphates, especially in Tororo. We should avail funds for this facility to take off – (Member timed out.)

He told us that the program is a breeding program. His concern is that a castrated bull was supplied for a breeding programme. This is contradictory. I want to request you, Mr Speaker, that you allow me to get details of this, so that we get to the bottom of it and we report back. In conclusion, I want to also comment on the issue of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) that was raised by Hon. Nsaba-Buturo. My comment is in the form of a request to Parliament that we need to conclude legislation on this matter, because in the absence of legislation, there is a gap. When you go to the supermarkets in Kampala, there are GMO products which are taking advantage of this vacuum of a lack of legislation. Therefore, my request is that both the Executive and the Parliament work together to ensure that we conclude this process of legislating on this matter. I thank you very much, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I equally join my colleagues in thanking the chairperson for the presentation of the report of the committee. My point of issue goes on non-payment of arrears for the senior citizens who worked with the East African Community. They have been moving all the time because we do not have regional offices; they have to move to Kampala to claim their money, which has never been paid to date. Mr Speaker, I want the chairperson to tell us if they are planning to budget for payment of these arrears.

Mr Speaker, I beg to present the Ministerial Policy Statement on the following votes under the Committee for the Presidency. Before I do that, I wish to lay on Table the minutes and the report accordingly. The report contains the budget performance of the various sectors. These are 11 in number. They have proposed budgets. They also contain the alignment with the National Development Plan IV objectives and activities to be undertaken. All that is contained in the report. The committee oversees the Office of the President under Vote 001. Vote 002 is State House. Vote 003 is the Office of the Prime Minister. Vote 023: Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs. Vote 107: Uganda AIDS Commission. Vote 110, as guided, was supposed to be under the presidency, but until we get the clarification from the appointing authority who had directed that it goes to Science, Technology and Innovations, I leave that to your discretion. Mr Speaker, we have Kampala Capital City Authority under Vote 122. The Directorate of Ethics and Integrity is vote 112. Vote 158 is the Internal Security Organisation. We also have vote 159, External Security Organisation. We also have Science, Technology, and Innovations.

16977 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 10 APRIL 2025 I will not go into the solid details of the methodology, the basics, and the mandates. They are very clear cut. You will read them. I am sure they have uploaded them on your iPads. Under Vote 001, Office of the President, we have the following observations - That is on page 6. We observe that there is inadequate office accommodation. The committee recommends that an additional Shs 2.8 billion be made available to Vote 001, annually, to enable the Office of the President to construct at least five offices each financial year, so as to mitigate the challenge of office space for Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) in the medium-term. You realise that out of 146 offices of RDCs, only 16 have been constructed, and that is where we have accommodation. The rest are renting. Under the same Vote 001, there is a big issue of Cabinet support and policy development, where we observed a big gap that needs at least, as a recommendation, Shs 1.976 billion to be provided to this vote, to facilitate interventions of Cabinet support and policy development. What they do, you can read above. Another key result area is the development and maintenance of National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, where all of you have been. It has been under constant refurbishment and improvement to make life easy there for whoever wants to make use of it. They, however, have a shortage or big gaps. They had a budget of Shs 10 billion, and only Shs 2 billion was made available. We, therefore, recommended that an additional Shs 7.5 billion be allocated to vote 001 to facilitate the development of NALI, that is, Kyankwanzi. Under key issue number 274, that is facilitation for Resident District Commissioners, the offices - I have already talked about this. It is almost the same. Office and accommodation are the same. One is for office and one is for residence. We recommend that Shs 12.424 billion be provided for the facilitation of RDCs and that the size and nature of the districts – I am sorry. Can I take you back right, Mr Speaker? I want to go a little bit into greater detail on this one. I am talking about facilitation for the Resident District Commissioners. The committee observes that uniform facilitation to RDCs without consideration of the size and the nature of the districts, among other factors, does not ensure equality and allocation. Such districts include Wakiso - you all know Kasese, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Tororo, Sironko, and a few others. The committee is of the strongest view that providing facilitation to RDCs while considering the size of districts served, the distances covered from Kampala, and those hard-to-reach areas, should improve on their roles and therefore their take-home as far as fuel and other related facilitations are concerned. The committee recommends that at least Shs 12.424 billion be provided to facilitate RDCs and that the size and nature of the district be among the factors considered for allocation of this facilitation. Another issue of concern was support for the Afro-Arab Youth Council headquarters construction. The Afro-Arab Youth Council was formed by the youth of the African and Arab world –

I am very sorry, Mr Speaker. I thought it was on. I always see people come and just talk. Vote 122: Kampala Capital City Authority We looked at one major problem here and that was solid waste management. We are recommending that Shs 78.3 billion be provided to Vote 122 to enable KCCA to deliver on its mandate in as far as solid waste management is concerned. You all know the issue of Kiteezi – all those details are put there. We further recommend that the management of Kampala Capital City Authority explores the possibility of investing in sustainable waste management through recycling, like it is done in many other modern countries. Vote 003: Office of the Prime Minister Office of the Prime Minister is quite a wide one, but we do not have very many recommendations on this. We only request that, one, the budget enhancement for the Office of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Government Chief Whip and minister for general duties be enhanced by at least Shs 12 billion. Finally, we also talked about northern Uganda, Karamoja affairs, Luweero Triangle and Busoga affairs portfolio. We put our recommendations very clearly. In conclusion, Mr Speaker, the committee appreciates the total funding gaps that have been indicated in all the MDAs under this jurisdiction, but it is also alive to the challenges associated with the resource envelope constraints. The committee, therefore, calls upon the Government to consider enhancing allocation to the presidency, KCCA and Office of the Prime Minister in interventions it has deemed critical as highlighted in this report. I wish to report. Thank you.

16812 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 Wednesday, 9 April 2025 East, Kampala. They are represented by Hon. Nyeko Derrick and Hon. Shamim Malende. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House, please join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, I thank all committees that have completed consideration of the ministerial policy statements and encourage those who have not yet to ensure that they finish by Thursday, 10 th April so that we have enough time to present and debate the reports. Also, it has come to my attention that nearly every committee is inviting the Minister for Finance to appear before it. Please, that is not tenable. The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development will not be able to appear before all committees. Therefore, I advise sectoral committees not to invite or require the Minister of Finance to appear before them before processing because the Minister of Finance will appear before the Budget Committee where you will present. Otherwise, we are going to have a situation of saying we have not yet completed because the Minister of Finance has not appeared. Ensure that the minister in charge of the sectors under you appears before you and that minister should have worked issues out with the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development because they have a liaison person who works with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 25TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.27 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Colleagues, I welcome you to today’s sitting. In the VIP gallery this afternoon, we have a delegation of Hansard staff from the Parliament of Zimbabwe. They include: 1. Ms Kanyume Enia – Director, Hansard 2. Ms Chivaura Mary - Principal Hansard Reporter 3. Ms Masunda Fungai - Principal Hansard Reporter 4. Mr Carrington Mbiri - Principal Hansard Reporter 5. Ms Nyoka Abigirl - Principal Hansard Reporter 6. Ms Kane Memory - Principal Hansard Reporter They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Once again, join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Furthermore, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have student leaders from Kampala International University in Makindye

Thank you. Honourable member, this is an issue which I have been very clear on. Remember when we attempted to do it here and then found the conflict between the Rules of Procedure of Parliament and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)? We found out that we could not amend our rules to align with the programme- based budgeting before amending the PFMA, which refers to sector-based budgeting. The minister for finance and the Attorney-General made a commitment. We agreed that by the budgeting cycle for next financial year, we should have already amended the PFMA so that we align our committees properly with the programmes that we are using. That is when I gave an example of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), which I met going to appear before four committees at the same time. They were going to the Committee on Presidential Affairs, the Committee on Education and Sports because of schools, the Committee on Health because of the health units that they run and the Committee on Physical Infrastructure because of the roads. Sometime back, the minister and Attorney- General told me that they had already finished the drafting process. We said that for that part – honourable minister, we are not trying to open up the PFMA in full. Regarding budgeting, we should realign our committees here and move very well. Therefore, I totally agree with Hon. Aleper and I hope that by the next budgeting cycle, we shall have sorted that. Hon. Kivumbi?

Honourable members, I will give Private Member’s Bills space after the budgeting process because I want us to first concentrate on the budgeting process and then we can have issues from Members. Honourable colleagues, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students of Acholi Makerere Students Association, Makerere University, Kampala. They are represented by Hon. Bashir Kazibwe and Hon. Shamim Malende, plus the MPs of wherever they come from – who might include Hon. Ojara-Mapenduzi and the team. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please, join me in welcoming them. You can stand up for recognition, our visitors. Thank you. (Applause) In the public gallery this afternoon, we also have students of Political Science and Political Administration from Kyambogo University, Kampala. They are represented by Hon. Mohammad Nsereko and Hon. Shamim Malende. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please, join me in welcoming them. You can you stand up for recognition. Thank you. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, in the public gallery this afternoon, we also have students from Sitfed High School, Sironko. I hope I got it right. They are represented by Hon. Florence Nambozo Wamala and Hon. Nathan Nandala- Mafabi. They have come to observe the proceedings of this House. Please join me in welcoming them. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, while working on the Order Paper, there is an item I included which was not meant for this period. This is a period for budgeting, so item four shall be handled immediately after the budgeting process, so that we have enough time to look into it. Let us go to item five. MOTION FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FINANCIAL YEAR 2025/2026

16860 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 It is high time that we gave money equitably, so that people can have services. It is true we have had two rounds so far. We should actually look at the districts. Instead of creating more, we would rather give people two or three units or give them Shs 3 billion, instead of Shs 1 billion, so that we can move. For the Uganda Road Fund, honourable colleagues, do not lament. You killed the Uganda Road Fund here when we were all seeing. I warned you. I said road maintenance is very key in this country. When you look at Kampala, you have floods. Why do you have floods? It is because the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) used to have a department for cleaning all these drainages but you killed it. Here we are lamenting. Honourable colleagues, we had these agencies after well thought out arguments. All of a sudden, one person comes and says, “Wipe them out”. We all accepted. Therefore, let us bear the suffering. We shall go through it but I appeal to the local government committee to go out and look at some of these administrative units so that we can have the size of each and not lament.

16797 Thursday, 27 March 2025 I hope we can exhaustively interrogate these documents to come up with the final budget estimates that we will all appreciate. We want to give you enough time to look through these documents. We do not want complaints that “You did not give us enough time; we were rushed.” No, we want you to have enough time to scrutinise them. Therefore, after today’s session, we shall adjourn to give committees time, so that we do not run plenary alongside committee work. We want maximum concentration from the members of the committees. It will not be a recess; it will be a plenary recess so that committees can continue working fully. Apart from committees, which have special assignments, we want sectoral committees to sit because each Member is at least a member of one sectoral committee. We would like all of us to participate in the budgeting process. Honourable colleagues, yesterday morning, various parts of the Lake Victoria Basin received heavy rains, which caused flooding in some places and subsequently impeded mobility; we even lost lives. I read in the media that we lost seven people and more are injured. What happened yesterday was very unfortunate. Such climate-induced occurrences are a reminder about the need for a responsible and sustainable environment, and natural resource use by every one of us. At the end of IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 24TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.20 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Mr Speaker, I join you in condoling with the bereaved families. By the close of yesterday, seven people had passed on due to the flooding that happened in various parts of Kampala and beyond. With your permission, sir, hopefully at some point, we can observe a moment of silence for these Ugandans.

A couple of days back, we were here discussing the heat wave, which had become very problematic. Some colleagues here reported deaths in their constituencies. People were collapsing and dying because of the extreme heat, and the Members tasked the Government to deal with that situation and update the country on what ought to happen. We are now on the opposite side of the lane, with very heavy rains that are causing flooding. As you have mentioned, seven people died as of yesterday. In my constituency, I lost three people. There were two people in Mulimira Zone in Bukoto: a three-year-old child and an 11-month-old baby. There was another in Banda, and of course, different parts of Kampala. I implore the Government to reach out to the affected and bereaved families. There are several that are now displaced. We are trying to find shelter for them in churches, mosques and so on, and take care of them from there. We are hoping that the Government comes in because many are not able to stay in their homes currently. They are still flooded; others were affected heavily. I hope that the Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, in conjunction with the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, will intervene as quickly as they possibly can. But away from that immediate intervention - and I hope it will be immediate – Mr Speaker, the Government needs to update this House on what is happening to avert these happenings because the cause is known - poor drainage. We see buildings coming up in every corner of Kampala. Different structures are coming up; we do not know who approves them. Many of them have not planned for drainage. We have seen KCCA and the Government go after some poor people in areas like Lubigi, but then some powerful people are not touched in areas of COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16799 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF U GANDA THURSDAY, 27 M ARCH 2025 Namanve, which used to be a water catchment area but is now entirely gone. We see factories, hotels and so on, approved by the Government. We do not know whether it is encroachment on the environment and wetlands when you are poor, but when you are rich and powerful, it is okay because all of that is the effects that we are facing today. We hope that the Government can address these matters, because it cannot be okay for some and not okay for others. There is also this poor planning that is all over the place. Kampala is already too congested; so, we keep adding many little things here and there, but drainage is not taken care of. We need to address these matters, otherwise, we shall be here crying again and again, mourning to no avail. Finally, Mr Speaker, allow me to request a response from the Government on a matter that is not related. On the 31 st of January this year, the Supreme Court issued a ruling that civilians have no place under the country’s military courts. We pushed to see that, as had been directed, those files would be transferred from the General Court Martial to the civil courts. As we speak today, it has happened for some like Dr Kiiza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale, and we are now pursuing to see that they get bail because they deserve their freedom. However, Mr Speaker, there are several other people whose files have not been transferred; the likes of Yasin “Machete”, Sharif Kalanzi, Agaba Anthony, also known as Bobi Young, and a plethora of others. Their files have not been transferred; we do not know why. We thought that the Government would move quickly to adhere to the Supreme Court’s ruling. Can we get an update because their families keep asking us? Is the Government not interested in respecting the order of the Supreme Court? Are they not planning to? What exactly is happening around that matter? It is important that this matter is responded to. I thank you.

Mr Speaker. I take this opportunity, first of all, to thank you, for raising the concerns on the flooding in Kampala. Regarding the issue that you raised on the work that we have been handling, we were majorly handling the Lugogo flooding and the report is ready. When you avail us time, we shall table it. Mr Speaker, yesterday’s rain was the first or second rain we received, but we can see the extent of the damage. I would like to assure you that for the little time I have been on that committee, almost 60 per cent of the work you see going around in Kampala has no approved plans. Whoever has interested themselves, knows that. Two, the ones that we have attempted to look at are not even supervised by competent engineers. Now it is Kampala, but there is also Kasese, Bududa and many other areas coming up. You can be sure that in this season, we shall be discussing disaster daily. Therefore, it is now very important that the Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees comes to this House with a plan on how prepared we are for these disasters. Yesterday was just a sample; we are headed for more trouble. Mr Speaker, it is very important that you give timelines to the Prime Minister’s office to prepare the country on what they project and what they are prepared to do, so that we are not caught unprepared because we are aware of what is likely to happen. Thank you very much.

Okay, with your permission, let me alert the country that still the months of March, April and May will be characterised, according to our scientists, by isolated thunderstorms, strong wind, lightning, hailstorms and heavy rains. This fact must be stated because some of them are natural and we need to prepare ourselves that from what we are experiencing, we may even go to the worst. As I speak, the ministry in charge of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Office of the Prime Minister and the agencies that do help us when such disasters occur, are meeting in order to come up with a way forward on what the country is experiencing. However, I would like to state that majorly, it is attributed to natural disaster and partly occasioned by our human indiscipline. That is why we will continue experiencing this. If it pleases you, Mr Speaker, you may guide for

16797 Thursday, 20 March 2025 quick minutes, we kept bringing critical matters to this House, and you gave us an audience. We kept raising the matter of the brutality that was occasioned in the Kawempe North by-election. The Government kept giving us commitments. I remember Gen. David Muhoozi was here and gave a response expressing dismay about some of the happenings, including the beating up of people and journalists. He promised to investigate and get back to the House. In the same vein, Hon. David Bahati rose and said that this was wrong, and on behalf of the Government, he was going to follow it up. He even said he would visit one journalist who had been brutalised, Miracle Ibra. He said the Government would even take care of the medical bill, and he promised to get back to us. You, Madam Speaker, tasked the Government with following up and getting back to the House, but the situation only got worse. It is as if the matters that we raised here and the task you gave them were taken for granted. The situation became a lot more precarious. After our candidate in that race, a one, Luyimbazi Nalukoola, was assaulted, our supporters were brutalised, and several leaders were brutalised, including on election day. In fact, some of your Members here were badly brutalised and are still nursing injuries. Journalists were not spared either. They were badly beaten, others were abducted and taken IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 23RD SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the shadow ministers, I beg to lay the alternative ministerial policy statement for the gender, labour and social development Sector. On behalf of the Shadow Minister of Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Karim Masaba, I beg to lay the Alternative Ministerial Policy Statement for the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities. On behalf of the Shadow Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (Office of the President), I beg to lay – (Interjections) – that is the ministry. On behalf of the Shadow Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Metropolitan Affairs, I beg to lay the alternative policy statement for the sector. This is an alternative policy statement, but it is big and will be the main one. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Shadow Minister of the Presidency and Security, Hon. Francis Zaake, I beg to lay the Alternative Ministerial Policy Statement for the above sector.

Yes, equity - the list of people who have benefited. I think that is one of the issues you raised. But also, Madam Speaker, when we went into privatisation, we privatised all Government banks. We have spoken about Uganda Development Bank (UDB) and tried to capitalise it. However, this seems to be the only bank, centralised in Kampala, where the loan is accessed by very few people. I would like to know from the Government when they will possibly decentralise it at regional levels, because we are talking about UDB but it does not portray any national traits. Also, when one goes there to access money, they meet many hurdles until they give up. You cannot know which people are accessing money from UDB - (Applause) - because it seems to be a bank for some specific people who we are – I, would therefore, like to appeal to the Government. If we want to put a helpful bank in place -

If we a bank, which will be helpful to all Ugandans, we should at least put it at a sub-region or regional level. But, to have one bank centred in Kampala and think that it

Thank you. Honourable minister? Does this bank give people outside Kampala city some money?

Madam Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity. I support the motion that UDB be guaranteed to acquire this loan for only two major reasons: The first one is that whether we guarantee this loan and they get it or not, Ugandans are borrowing money. The money on the market is very expensive. In my little work as a lawyer in the courts of law, I see people losing property day in and day out. As we sit here, every minute, a Ugandan is losing property, including villagers who borrow from the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA); they are committing suicide. People are dying because of interest rates. (Laughter) Comrades, I beg this country, ladies and gentlemen, that – in fact, we should have even guaranteed this money yesterday. We would have been in a hurry to guarantee this money. Let UDB get the money and then we follow it there. What we must now do is to mobilise our people to say there is a cheaper loan available in Kampala. (Laughter) For me, after this, I am guaranteeing the money. I kindly request all of us to guarantee this money. Let them get it. From now on, I am going to mobilise my people and tell them that money is in Kampala, in UDB. (Laughter) I thank you.

16730 THE MORTGAGE REFINANCE INSTITUTIONS BILL, 2024 Wednesday, 12 March 2025 So, the sectoral committees and the Budget Committee will be handling the ministerial statements. This time around, we want to compare what was in the previous financial year vis-à-vis what is in this year. After looking at that, we will make an analysis — and we are supposed to report back to the House by 1 April 2025. The Leader of the Opposition is supposed to present an alternative policy statement by the 27 th day of March, pursuant to Rule 147 of the Rules of Procedure. However, since we shall be having committees, we will refer the report from the Leader of the Opposition, administratively, to all the committees, for them to be handled together with the Government’s ministerial statements. The House will commence the consideration of the reports of the sectoral committees on the ministerial statements on the 1 st of April, having taken into consideration the Government’s and the Opposition’s sides. Similarly, the Government Chief Whip will ensure that there is compliance with Section 13(3) of the Public Finance Management Act, which requires the tabling of the budget and tax Bills by the 1 st of April. I urge all the responsible duty-bearers to ensure compliance with the timelines. Remember that this is an election year and, at the same time, we should be able to finish the budget. I thank you all for coming. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 23RD SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Annet Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16765 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 12 MARCH 2025 Vote 141: Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) – Shs 38.137 billion The committee observes that the Uganda Revenue Authority requires Shs 38.13 billion for payment to RIPPLE NAMI INC in respect of the 25 per cent of the net rental income taxes collected for greater Kampala area over and above the baseline. The committee recommends approval of Shs 38.17 billion to Vote 141: URA. Vote 144: Uganda Police Force – Shs 190.969 billion The committee observed that the Uganda Police Force requires Shs 190.969 billion to meet operational shortfalls for the Financial Year 2024/25 with respect to food, crime intelligence and investigations, utilities, classified assets, vehicles for DPCs and domestic arrears. The committee recommends approval of Shs 190.969 billion to Vote 144: Uganda Police Force. Vote 302: Mbarara University – Shs 3.998 billion The committee observed that Mbarara University requires Shs 3.998 billion for non-tax revenue collections which are over projections in the Budget and have been confirmed by the Accountant-General. The committee recommends approval of Shs 3.998 billion to vote 302. Vote 415: Moroto Regional Referral Hospital – Shs 481 million The committee observed that Moroto Regional Referral Hospital requires Shs 481 million to cater for renovation and replacement of old and dilapidated structures and the old drainage system. The committee recommends approval of Shs 481 million to Vote 415: Moroto Regional Referral Hospital. Vote 506: Uganda High Commission, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Shs 749 million. The committee was informed that Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania requires Shs 749 million to enable the vote meet budget shortfalls on rent, financial constraints in the Uganda Consulate in Arusha and organisation and participation in the 5 th Session of the Uganda- Tanzania Joint Permanent Commission. The committee recommends approval of Shs 749 million to Vote 506. Vote 512: Uganda Embassy in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa – Shs 2 billion The committee was informed that the Uganda Embassy in Addis requires Shs 2 billion to cover budget shortfalls on rent, AU peace and Security Council activities and to cater for salary shortfalls. The committee recommends approval of Shs 2 billion to Vote 512. Vote 513: Uganda Embassy in China, Beijing – Shs 219 million The committee was informed that the Uganda Embassy in China, Beijing, requires Shs 219 million to cater for unpaid premiums on medical insurance to avoid legal action against the vote. The committee recommends approval of Shs 219 million to Vote 513. Vote 515: Uganda Embassy in Japan, Tokyo – Shs 1.5 billion The committee was informed that the Uganda Embassy in Japan requires Shs 1.5 billion to facilitate the 2025 Osaka World Expo in view of economic and commercial diplomacy. The committee recommends approval of Shs 1.5 billion to Vote 515. Vote 516: Uganda Embassy in Saudi Arabia – Shs 273 million The committee was informed that the Uganda Embassy in Saudi Arabia requires Shs 273

16769 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 12 MARCH 2025 Vote 016: Ministry of Works and Transport – Shs 955.812 billion The committee observed that the Ministry of Works and Transport requires Shs 955.812 billion to be provided as follows: 1. Shs 63.512 billion to cover the cost of terminal benefits for staff impacted by RAPEX under UNRA and Uganda Road fund; 2. Shs 61 billion for outstanding obligations on the SGS compensation for the non-tax revenue (NTR) (Shs 15 billion), Soroti Flying School/East African Civil Aviation Academy, Railways, Kalangala, and National Review Board; 3. Shs 500 billion, outstanding debt against the interim payment certificates for the National Roads Projects and the District and Urban Community Access Roads (DUCAR); 4. Shs 40.2 billion for the construction of a steel jetty at Pakwach Bridge and access roads to a cement factory in Karamoja; and 5. Shs 291.1 billion for the preliminary works for the commencement of the Malaba- Kampala SGR project to finance the works under the limited notice to proceed. The committee recommends approval of Shs 955.812 billion to Vote 016. Vote 017: Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development – Shs 928.014 billion The committee observed that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development requires Shs 928.014 billion for the following: 1. Umeme buyout (Shs 725.42 billion), and Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Shs 190 billion; 2. Shs 7 billion for the construction of a dedicated power line in Ntungamo, to provide reliable power to the Inspire Africa Coffee Factory and H5 Tin Factory. The line will pick its supply from the Mirama Hills substation and will be completed in six months; and 3. Shs 5.59 billion reimbursement of funds utilised from the electricity transmission infrastructure project which were used to pay for outstanding thermal power capacity charges. The committee recommends the approval of Shs 928.014 billion to Vote 017. Vote 018: Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development – Shs 8.53 billion The committee observed that the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development required: a. Shs 4.6 billion for the national celebrations - Women’s Day, Youth Day, Day for Older Persons and People with Disabilities and Labour Day; and b. Shs 3.88 billion to support Masuulita Remand Home. The committee recommends approval of Shs 8.53 billion to vote 018. Vote 022: Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities – Shs 3.24 billion The committee observed that the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities requires Shs 3.24 billion for additional NTR. The committee was informed that the NTR collected by the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute in Jinja from school fees and hotel revenue is to be used for the payment of contractual gratuity, training, and operationalisation of the new administration block. The committee recommends approval of Shs 3.24 billion to Vote 022.

16770 THE MORTGAGE REFINANCE INSTITUTIONS BILL, 2024 Vote 122: Kampala Capital City Authority – Shs 6.711 billion The committee was informed that KCCA provided Shs 6.71 billion to cater for shortfalls in the city cleaners’ wages. Shs 6.594 billion resulting from the increase in the number of workers and the new terms of employment for the cleaners, and allowances for parish chiefs for PDM monitoring. The committee recommends approval of Shs 6.711 billion to vote 122. Vote 131: Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) – Shs 17.2 billion; The committee was informed that the Office of the Auditor-General requires Shs 17.2 billion for restoration of the budget for OAG to enable efficient operations for the rest of the financial year. The committee recommends approval of Shs 17.2 billion to Vote 131. Vote 137: National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) – Shs 436.872 million NIRA required this money for the civil registration department was received from URSB during RAPEX. The committee recommends approval of Shs 836.872 billion to Vote 137: NIRA. Vote 138: Uganda Investment Authority – Shs 5 billion The committee observed that the Uganda Investment Authority required Shs 5 billion from contractual obligations for the owner’s engineer for works at Kampala Industrial and Business Park Namanve. The committee recommends approval of Shs 5 billion to Vote 132. Vote 142: National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) The committee observed that the National Agricultural Research Organisation required Shs 70 billion: i) Out of which Shs 10 billion was for the management of aflatoxins in cereals and other related products. NARO has developed aflatoxin mitigation products and established a production and research facility with the capability to produce the desired tonnage of aflatoxin mitigation in the country. It required 60 billion for the roll-out of the anti-tick vaccine. This will enable NARO to roll out the anti-ticks’ vaccine, after which the facility will be self-sustainable. NARO has completed the clinical trials of the vaccine, and it has been proven to be 95 per cent effective. This supplementary will enable the production and distribution of 20 million doses of the vaccine. The committee recommends Shs 70 billion to Vote 142: National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) Vote 167: Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation – Shs 60 billion The committee was informed that the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation required Shs 60 billion for the completion and operationalisation of the Coffee Value Addition Park in Ntungamo. The funds are for completion of the standards and certifications, and working capital to enable purchase of coffee from farmers, operational funds for running the coffee processing hub, marketing and branding. The committee recommends the approval of Shs 60 billion to Vote 167. Vote 301: Makerere University – Shs 5 billion The committee was informed about the shortfalls in education material, support for research and support for gender and equity interventions to replace donor funding which has ended, as we all know. The committee recommends approval of Shs 5 billion to Vote 301. SUPPLEMENTARY EXPENDITURE SCHEDULE NO.3 FOR FY 2024/2025 [Mr Kateshumbwa]

Madam Chairperson, additionally, I am aware that where there is a contract, it details how parties are going to operate. There is already a contract that exists between Umeme and the Government of Uganda and it stipulates how it exits. Let us leave that matter alone and deal with the matters, which have come to this committee. The other time will also come and we will deal with the matter the way it will come. We will check by the fruits, the symptoms and the signs. 1. Vote 017 - Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development - Shs 915,420,000,000; 2. Vote 018 - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development - Shs 9,330,000,000; 3. Vote 020 - Ministry of Information and Communications Technology – Shs 1,310,000,000; 4. Vote 022 - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage – Shs 3,240,000,000; 5. Vote 111 - National Curriculum Development Centre – Shs 7,123,473,500; 6. Vote 122 - Kampala Capital City Authority – Shs 6,711,980,000; 7. Vote 126 - National Information Technologies Authority - Shs 18,000,000,000; 8. Vote 132 - Education Service Commission - Shs 1,300,000,000; 9. Vote 137 - National Identification and Registration Authority – Shs 436,872,000; 10. Vote 138 - Uganda Investment Authority - Shs 5,000,000,000; 11. Vote 141 - Uganda Revenue Authority - Shs 38,136,913,704; 12. Vote 142 - National Agricultural Research Organisation – Shs 70,000,000,000; and 13. Vote 144 - Uganda Police Force – Shs 62,969,000,500. Vote 16 –

Honourable colleagues, Parliament is honoured to have a special guest today who is seated in the VIP Gallery; that is Hon. Andre Clifford Marcellino. He is from the Parliament of Seychelles and he is the chairman of the Committee on Defence. (Applause) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 22ND SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.28 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. Honourable, we discussed this issue extensively when we were handling the Budget Framework Paper (BFP) and I raised it myself because I gave an example of the time when I found Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) coming to four committees at once. They were going to the Committee on Physical Infrastructure because of roads, Committee on Education because of schools, Committee on Health because of the health centres and to Presidential Affairs because of their operations as KCCA. Remember that when we referred this issue to the Committee on Rules, Privilege and Discipline, it reported back and said we needed to first amend the PFMA. The Attorney- General and the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development came here and committed to amending the PFMA to realign the whole process. The Attorney-General called me and told me that the draft Bill was ready. However, at that time, we also agreed that for the budgeting process of this financial year, we would handle it using the current law and rules then in the subsequent financial years, we will already have updated the law and I hope minister for finance, you are already working on together with the Attorney-General. I do not know if you have any updates for us concerning amending the PFMA so that we realign programme-based budgeting with the law so that we are able to amend our rules. Honourable minister?

Mr Speaker, pursuant to Section 13(13) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015, as amended and Rule 146 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda, I beg to lay the Ministerial Policy Statements for Vote 001: Office of the President, Vote 002: State House, Vote 23: Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Vote 107: Uganda Aids Commission, Vote 112: Directorate of Ethics and Integrity, Vote 158: Internal Security Organisation and Vote 159: External Security Organisation.

Mr Speaker, in the same spirit, allow me to lay for Vote 122 - Kampala Capital City Authority. I beg to lay.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. In line with Rule 33 of the Rules Procedure of Parliament, allow me to lay a report of the Committee on Presidential Affairs on the Benchmarking Visit to Nairobi City Coun - cil, September 2024. Permit me, to briefly go through the observations and recommenda - tions. The committee visited the Dandora dump site in Nairobi, the designated waste collection area for the entire city. The committee found that, like Kampala and, by extension, the whole of Uganda, Nairobi and Kenya as a whole are faced with the challenge of proper waste management. Like Kiteezi, Dandora was declared full close to 20 years ago, but it is still in use. The committee was informed that several attempts have been made to run the dumpsite in an environmentally suitable manner, but these have had little impact. In recognition of the urgent need to address the challenge of waste, the Nairobi County government resolved to build a modern waste-to-energy management plant and sought bids from various developers. A successful bidder signed a public-private partnership agreement. The agreement grants a 25-year concession to the investor, who is obliged to construct a plant and produce 45 megawatts of electricity that will be sold to the Kenya Power and Lighting Company, which operates the national grid. The plant is expected to employ Kenyans, especially those whose lives depend on waste management. On city cleaning, the committee observes the city’s efforts to clean up, and they employ hundreds of young people between 18 and 27 years of age as cleaners, referred to as the “green army.” The move helps address the rising levels of youth unemployment in the city while also ensuring the city is clean. The Green Army has pensionable jobs with insurance and a monthly salary of Kshs 25,000, equivalent to Shs 750,000. Air pollution management: The Nairobi County government has installed solar-powered air quality monitoring sensors in Nairobi. These sensors measure the quality of air in various parts of the city. The information generated is accessible via the Internet on various devices, including mobile phones, through a mobile application. The Nairobi City County Governor has also made giant strides in lowering pollution

16690 THE ENGINEERING PROFESSIONALS BILL, 2024 through other means, most especially through tree planting and river reclamation. Recommendations The committee recommends that: 1. Kampala Capital City Authority should construct a modern waste-to-energy plant that enables the daily consumption of waste generated in the city. This will save money for the decommissioning of the Kiteezi landfill and establishing another landfill; 2. Work in collaboration with public institutions such as the Uganda Industrial Research Institute and Kira Motors Corporation, among others, to design the bodies of garbage trucks, which is much cheaper than importing the trucks; 3. Ensure the segregation of waste at the point of collection to enable segregation at disposal and encourage recycling; 4. Scale up tree planting in the city to counter the effects of environmental degradation and the climate; 5. Embrace technology with regard to air pollution sensors in various parts of the city and use the data generated to inform policy action towards countering air pollution; 6. Increase the number of garbage collection equipment and make the same available in all areas of the city; and, 7. Engage in mass sensitisation and engagement regarding proper waste management, and incentivise city cleaners by providing them with enhanced pay and permanent employment to ensure increased garbage collection and enhanced welfare. The committee also visited the education sector in Kenya’s county governments. Nairobi City County runs 211 primary schools, 216 early childhood development education centres, and 193 secondary schools. Whereas Education in public schools in Kenya is free, feeding the learners remains a challenge -

16691 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 11 MARCH 2025 The recommendations of the Committee on Health were as follows: 1. The committee recommends that the Ministry of Health should change the management of health facilities from medical superintendents to Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and hinge on the renewal of their contracts on measurable performance targets. 2. The Minister of Health, Kampala Capital City Authority, and other administrative units in charge of health facilities should upscale the use of ICT and employ artificial intelligence as far as practical in health facilities to bring about efficiency in the health sector. I beg to lay.

Thank you. Honourable minister, I would like to know whether you have been engaging the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development on the RCDF money. I do not want to go far but last year, I think the money was at Shs 110 billion yet only Shs 55 billion went to UCC. They usually say to the people of finance that when money goes to the Consolidated Fund, it loses colour and is not easy to trace. However, I think the major aim of creating this fund was the traceability of money meant for rural areas and; the improvement of communication services in rural areas. For example, UCC helped us a lot in the digital migration and out of that, we also had Signet. However, Signet has only been available in Kampala yet it is supposed to mainly help the rural poor up country. I know we brought some money in the last supplementary to help Signet but how sustainable is this? Shall we continue with the supplementary? Therefore, honourable minister, we need you to strongly engage Finance on this. If money is meant for rural communication infrastructure, that business of saying we only give you 50 per cent, and then 50 per cent goes to the Consolidated Fund - some of us who come from rural areas will be cheated and we will not be able to get help. Honourable minister, come and respond to the issues raised by members. Honourable minister, I said the debate ended so I cannot allow any further questions.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank both the chairperson and the minority team for the elaborate presentation. Mr Speaker, a while ago we were talking about programme-based budgeting and budgeting based on sectors. This Bill equally falls in that category. We have situations in different legal frameworks where you find an entity or an institution is subject to four or three different lines of authority. You would want to say an institution can handle it, but individuals of the calibre of technicians, artisans, to be subjected to that kind of line, will be stretching too far. They are going to pay double dues, and you will find that they will have multiple registrations. We are already seeing it in the case of cooperatives where you find a cooperative is required to report itself to the registrar within the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism; and then you find they also have got to go to the Microfinance Support Centre. In the spirit of aligning that we are looking at in the PFMA, in the context of this law, now that we have been able to catch it at this level, we should leave it at that. I also want to applaud the minority report. I have found it very detailed and useful, providing items that seem to have been left out by the main report. Imagine the issue to do with the training and mentorship – if indeed it was left out in the majority report – it is very important that we can have engineers and contractors being compelled to provide training. The other day, during the commissioning of the Kibuye roundabout road (Kampala flyover project), I saw them presenting two gentlemen who have been trained to undertake the construction of bridges of that nature. If the majority report lacks this clause of training and mentorship, I think it should be adopted. Lastly, the issue of progressive training for professionals is very important to capture. You find that an engineer last went to school when they graduated 10 years ago, but they are

16635 Thursday, 6 March 2025 the incidents registered during the Kawempe North by-election campaigns. This statement has been uploaded late because we did not know that it would be allowed on the Order Paper, but I think members should have it now. Several incidents have been registered in the course of the ongoing Kawempe North by- election-related activities. These involve, among others, skirmishes between NUP supporters and security forces, as a result of which 24 people were arrested and put in custody. Those arrested include two honourable members of this House, namely Hon. Nyeko and Hon. Nkunyingi. The details of the particulars of those in custody are attached to this brief. The action taken so far: A case file was opened at Wandegeya Police Station Vide SD Ref. 63/03/03/2025. Statements have been recorded from all those in custody to enable the processing of their cases for court. Those arrested were presented to court and remanded on Tuesday, 4 March 2025. The Government intends to ensure a clean, transparent and safe by-election in Kawempe North Constituency. Towards this end, the various players including the Electoral Commission who organised the by-election, the contenders from the different parties and IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 21ST SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.19 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

I would like to thank you, Mr Speaker, for this opportunity to add my voice. Fortunately, I lived in an era when I saw anarchy during my early childhood. The memories of the 1980s, 86 to 90—we were victims, internally displaced persons (IDPs). When you go to Teso, you are terrorised by the illegal guns and wars there. I am surprised that in this day and era - we thought we would run to Kampala for refuge. But the way things are being done and in broad daylight - honourable colleagues, we are the voices of the people. All of us have got to stand together to condemn these actions. (Applause) When the army spoke, they said they did not know those people . Security agencies have disowned some of these people. By now, in a normal situation, those people should be behind bars.

16660 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION [Ms Amongi] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT By April, we will have the list of SACCOs. We have already profiled areas that are not getting much of the money. Maybe just for clarity, data and statistics - unless you ask me to bring data later, but when we realised that most of the money had been absorbed within the Greater Kampala and Central, we went back to the Cabinet and requested that we redesign the programme to allocate the money according to the subregions. We now have an allocation for the 19 subregions and I have a list of how each of the subregions is going to get the money. The allocation that will come in April will be based on the 19 subregions. Already, I have the details of how much each subregion has been allocated – (Mr Amos Okot rose_)

16673 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 6 MARCH 2025 communicable diseases, you will find that death on the roads is actually the highest. Joe Walker walked from Kampala to Gulu advocating for road safety and they arrived yesterday. Pedestrians and cyclists are not catered for and yet we have school children who cross the road to go to school. On Monday, a four year old boy, Joshua, was knocked by a vehicle. Akena a 12 year old from Gulu was also buried yesterday - (Member timed out.)

Number two – (Laughter) - the question is coming. Number two, last year, remember when the helicopter attacked you, God made a ruling that you will still be here in this world. We said, “aye”. My question is, for the last three and a half years, in my district, farmers have been in conflict with wildlife. The wildlife has destroyed all the gardens in six subcounties, constantly. Members have been filling forms for compensation. Every time they filled the forms, they would come for them and review them in Kampala and say that they had failed. They would say that a name begins with a small letter instead of a capital letter. The old woman in the village has failed. They have become some sort of examination board. My question is, Parliament gave them money to go and compensate people but they have not compensated them. Did we send them as an examination body to mark the villagers or to pay them? Secondly, when the President came to Karamoja in December for the Parish Development Model (PDM) tour, he said he understood the problem of the people of Abim who suffered under the government militia and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). He directed that this year, they would be included - at least a small token - they would begin with something small. Therefore, this year, they would put them in the budget for compensation. However, when they presented the Budget Framework Paper, there was nothing. How could the President tell the people - and we are budgeting for the President - and there is nothing on the table. Thank you very much.

Thank you so much, Mr Speaker. My issue concerns the fatal motor accident that occurred yesterday at Kagoma, Mayanja valley that killed five people. Over 21 people were injured and it involved nine vehicles. Mr Speaker, you may recall that around late October, we had the Kigogwa fire accident. This is along Kampala-Bombo Road, much as Wakiso area is always affected. My question and plea is that - we had a thorough discussion on 13 July 2023 and it was initiated by your office to ensure how best we could have road safety in this country. The Hansard indicates what we discussed. Could we know when the Government will implement both short and long-term matters we agreed on and regulations for the Roads Act, 2019? Can we also have the initiation of compensation for all those people who are affected, given that many times insurance companies do not have due consideration for third parties? Can we have heavy – (Member timed out.)

16676 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION solution we are implementing now is removing heavy trucks from the roads by constructing the Standard-Gauge Railway (SGR). It is going to take some time, but once we have it from Tororo, where Hon. Ekanya comes from, to Kampala and from Kampala to Gulu and the rest of the country, the road accidents will definitely reduce. It is long-term. These other immediate measures are continuous sensitisation.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to thank the mover of the motion. When you look at the money that people spend to get back their phone numbers, it is so expensive. I once lost my line and discovered later that it was in Iganga. I had to give that person transport to bring the line to Kampala and I was just lucky that the person came to Kampala. Some even refuse while others charge a lot of money to give back the phone number. Mr Speaker, when that phone number is given to another person - Imagine a phone number belongs to a politician like me, people will call that person - the person who gave me back my SIM card, gave it after being stressed. He was very stressed; he even switched it off. When I looked for the phone number – In fact, by chance, someone called him and asked, “Why are you picking honourable members’ phone calls?” He left it switched on for a week until I was able to get him and he gave me my Sim card. Mr Speaker, the amount of money we spend can actually save our people by eliminating that problem. So, I thank you for the motion and I support it. Thank you.

16693 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 6 MARCH 2025 you are definitely identified with Africa. They keep on asking, “You want a—the others will always take one line, but for us, we need a lot of networks intertwined.” This motion is very timely, and I want to share my personal experience. Two weeks ago, I attempted to operate my mobile money, and I realised I was deregistered. I kept on asking, “Why do I get deregistered when I have mobile money?” For the last two weeks, I have been rotating between Lugogo Forest Mall and Kingdom Kampala Airtel Service Centres. Many times, I have been assured that I should give it 48 hours. On Tuesday, I was told to give it 24 hours. Yesterday, I was told by 4 p.m. I have not been able to redeem my mobile money on the number that is in use on my WhatsApp. I am just lucky because I was told that very soon, the number was going to be given to another person. In fact, they were wondering whether I still had the line. They asked if I could confirm that I had the line, and I did. This is a very good motion, such that a customer’s details can be tracked to them. Good enough; we have the honourable minister here. I have been asking the service providers under what law they were working to deregister me. They have not been able to tell me under what law they deregistered me. They were only telling me, “Give us 48 hours, and we are going to reactivate your number.” I want to thank you for the motion. Thank you very much.

16605 Wednesday, 5 March 2025 Therefore, we will not accept any policy statements that are submitted after the deadline. I confirmed this with the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, who has communicated to all accounting officers. I do not expect any accounting officer to disturb the ministers by asking them to run to the Office of the Speaker to be helped. I hope that we can keep that deadline – and I think some of them should be here by now. That is why I want to give a strong reminder. I request the minister for finance to request the PS/ST to write again to all accounting officers as a reminder. We take these things for granted but I know that when some of them miss – and I do not want to have issues, which we usually have, especially when it comes to policy statements. We would also appreciate it if you send us soft copies so that they are uploaded. This is because sometimes, we have had cases where chairpersons of committees have told me that statements are laid on the Table and then withdrawn because they have issues. We will be glad to have soft copies so that as you lay on the Table, they are also uploaded for the Members to look at. I will start allocating space on the Order Paper tomorrow to receive ministerial policy statements and we shall end that next week. Colleagues, today, I am not handling matters of national importance. We will handle all of IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 20TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.17 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Can I give guidance? The communication we have here on the Order Paper is communication from the presiding officer; No one else has the right to communicate. LOP, you can only stand up to either speak to my communication or a point of procedure. Point of procedure is for issues going on in the House as we are sitting. This is also now your communication. I know the matter might be critical, but it should fit within what is provided for in the rules. Therefore, since they have taken note of this matter, they should handle it tomorrow during the Prime Minister’s time. Colleagues, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students and teachers of Seven Hills International School, Kampala. They are represented in Parliament by Hon. Muhammad Nsereko and Hon. Shamim Malende. They are here to observe proceedings of this House. Please join me in welcoming them. Thank you. (Applause) Honourable minister, the Floor is yours.

16612 THE EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY MEDIATION AGREEMENT BILL,2024 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION [Mr Migadde] and analysis of the labour market needs for the health sector and the development of the East African Community non-communicable disease registry. Component three is project implementation which will involve providing resources to ensure effective project management at the country level. Under this component, additional financial resources will be used for effective projects at UCI and other public partner institutions for training and research, including Makerere University of Health Sciences, Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Gulu University. As the minister has already highlighted, the loan is concessional. Allow me to proceed with observations and recommendations. One is an increase in the number of additional financing requests. The Committee notes that of late, the Government has tabled before Parliament a number of proposals requiring additional financing to the already ongoing projects. A case in point is the Laropi-Moyo-Afoji- Katuna-Muko- Kamuganguzi Road Project, the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Project loan, Masaka-Mutukula Road Project; addition to this one and the Masaka-Mutukula Road Project, in addition to this. This has been attributed to delays in the implementation of the projects, lack of adequate planning and preparedness for these projects, and variations in the scope of work, among others. These lead to cost overruns resulting in requests for additional funds, ultimately increasing the financial burden on the Government. The committee, therefore, recommends that the Government should minimise variations in, therefore, recommends that Government should minimise variations in projects except in unavoidable circumstances, such as changes in scope or design, which may necessitate requests for additional funding. A case in point, in terms of infrastructure, the scope changed by 80 per cent for this project. The plan was not to build a new structure so they ended up building a new one. Two, the performance of the projects in the health sector. The committee noted that most of the ongoing projects in the health sector have faced slow progress and this is attributed to low disbursement rates. Delays in the procurement process, incomplete or errors in designs, and compensation issues that make sites inaccessible. Bureaucracy, delayed payment due to lack of funding mostly brought by conditions precedent to disbursement, among others. Delays in implementing or executing critical health projects have a significant impact on service delivery. The committee recommends that for efficient and effective implementation of this project, the implementing agency should ensure adequate identification and evaluation of risks that occur throughout the project cycle so that they are adequately mitigated to avoid further delays. As the committee was considering this request, we toured the Mulago Cancer Institute, we saw the situation there with patients on the floor, in the corridors and everywhere. Based on that, in addition to what the minister highlighted, as noted, the Government’s efforts to improve health outcomes in the country and in the East African community, at the regional level, the proposed projects provide a vehicle for implementing key disease control strategic priorities of regional level, the proposed projects provide a vehicle for implementing key disease control strategic priorities of regional institutions. Mr Speaker, the committee, therefore, supports and recommends to this House to approve the Government’s request to borrow up to

16619 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF U GANDA WEDNESDAY, 5 M ARCH 2 025 As we process all loans for the cancer institute, I want my district, Kalungu, which has only two kilometres of tarmac - constructed by the Catholic Church, from the main road to a parish church, to get some tarmac road as a new district. As a new district, we want to benefit from the loans as we pay or even when our children are paying. Lastly -(Interjection)- yes, I support it, but what I am saying – Mr Speaker, the last issue I want to raise - Hon. Kabasharira and Hon. Santa Alum from the UPC - have helped me to say the same issue of that 1 per cent; it is very key. Vultures are waiting for this money. I request the Government to go and read about the loans Obote was taking while in the Government. They would come and perform as fast as possible. Mr Minister, when we pass these loans, what period does it take to make them effective? Do you take three years or five months? In 2013, Mr Speaker, we passed a loan but which became effective in 2020 during COVID-19, and all the areas that were supposed to get power through that loan were all left out because work was done during COVID-19 and the vultures continued enjoying. That is why, as I conclude, today I was listening to a radio programme and the presenters were saying, “If you find the mansions and apartments in Kampala, the owners are government officials. They own 90 per cent of apartments, hotels and all these…” Where do they get that money from? It is from these loans we pass, which take so long to be effected. That is how they end up building and enjoying life yet at the end of the day, they can become victims of the same circumstance, and they will die, by the way. They will die and leave those apartments with the poorly educated children who have been enjoying their lives. They will drink whisky like black label or green label and they will also follow them by selling their assets. Let us pass the loan, but the honourable minister should confirm to this House, and assure us that once the loan is passed, this is the time of performance of the loan and we move on so that all the loans that come in move without any delays.

Honourable colleagues, I received your congratulatory messages on my election as the President of the Organisation of Africa, Caribbean and Pacific States Parliamentary Assembly (OACPS). I promise that I will make you proud. In a special way, I thank the Rt Hon. Speaker of Parliament who nominated me. Without her nomination, I would not have made it. I thank His Excellency, the President who gave me the clearance and support that was necessary. We ran a campaign. Sometimes, I use the principle of, “My son before it is completed, do not announce it.” That is how we ran that campaign and reached out to every delegate. Therefore, you better consult me on how to campaign. I will establish a campaign agency. Hon. Okupa knew what was going on. Honourable colleagues, what is very important is that this organisation meant a lot to two very critical people in this Parliament: the late Rt Hon. Jacob Oulanyah and the late Hon. Cecilia Ogwal. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 19TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.06 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Mr Speaker, last time I raised a matter here concerning the Kampala-Jinja Road and the interim measures to do with the problem on that road; a real crisis. Under your instruction, Mr Speaker, you ordered the Minister of Works and Transport to come and tell this House what they are doing. It is now weeks after and they have not returned. Now they are undertaking to bring other statements instead.

16512 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME Thursday, 27 February 2025 Tayebwa as the president of that association. (Applause) Remember that he is also the vice- chairperson of the Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers, where I am the chairperson for the whole world. (Applause) Size mate, we are not doing very badly. (Laughter) Honourable members, the Islamic holy month of Ramadan is likely to commence on Friday, February 28 2025 and conclude on Saturday, 29 March 2025. Ramadan is a time for us to increase our worship, religious reflections, and do charity - you will be surprised that Hon. Ssenyonyi will bring me some things here - doing good deeds socially. It often brings families and friends to festive gatherings around meals to break their fast. There are these people who have been moving out and the children have forgotten the parents; they think those are uncles. During this Ramadan, you are supposed to break your fast at home. Make sure you are at home with the children. Hon. Asuman, you should be able to do this. I take this opportunity to wish the Muslim fraternity a prosperous Ramadan. (Applause) Honourable members, the Parliamentary Football Team will have a friendly match with a team of former Uganda national players on Saturday, 1 March 2025, at 3.00 p.m., at Mengo Secondary School playground. You are cordially invited and notified. For those IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 18TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.58 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, we received a question from Hon. Dr Ronald Balimwezo, the MP for Nakawa East Constituency. He states that during this year’s budget debate, the Minister of Works and Transport, through the Attorney-General, assured Parliament that funds for compensating project-affected persons (PAPs) along the Kampala-Jinja Expressway were available. However, it is alarming that the majority of PAPs in his constituency have not yet been compensated. According to him, further compounding the issue, is that the Ministry of Works and Transport has failed to declare the specific amounts allocated for compensating the PAPs. For over seven years, according to him, PAPs have been unable to renovate their homes or construct basic facilities like pit latrines. Many of these families have resorted to using flying toilets (kaveera ), creating sanitation and health risks, including the possibility of disease outbreaks. The Kampala-Jinja Expressway is one of the most bankable infrastructure projects and its successful implementation should be a Government priority. His prayers are: i. When will the Ministry of Works and Transport release clear details of compensation packages for the PAPs? ii. What specific steps will the Government take to ensure the affected individuals are compensated promptly so that they can resume normal lives and improve their living conditions? iii. What measures will be put in place to prevent such delays in future compensation for other national projects? Madam Speaker, following the approval of the Addendum Methodology for compensation of PAPs without legal rights or interests to the land

16540 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME Ministry of Public Service deleted their names from the payroll and that required them to come to Kampala; at the ministry, to be validated. Some districts did not come, other districts came - and they were given dates. They would even announce on TV and say, “Districts A, B, C and D, come to Kampala for validation”, but some people did not come. I do not know whether the Minister of Education and Sports has something to say.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The matter we are addressing; the human resource database, is one that is important. The question to the Prime Minister is: why, in this day and era, are we still running a manual verification payroll, yet we have digital migration, well aware that some things can be weaned out when there is digital integration? This is by: 1. Creation of a unique number; 2. Capturing things like fingerprints and facial recognition; and 3. Pairing this user interface at schools where people operate and at workplaces just like we enter here. If you look into the screen there, your name and face are captured. Madam Speaker, we can solve very many things cheaply, but getting teachers to travel to Kampala to queue is a huge cost. We can use technology to reduce the cost and also make it more efficient.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As a catholic, I want to appreciate you for extending that heart of humility and kindness. The Holy Father is personally known to you, Madam Speaker. As a catholic, I stand with you and the rest of the world in prayer for quick healing and complete recovery of our Holy Father. Having said that, Madam Speaker, for evil to thrive, you need one facilitator; good people, good men and good women, specifically like you, Madam Speaker, to do nothing about it. I stand here at a value system called I am my brother’s keeper; I am my sister’s keeper. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 17TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16483 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2025 and respect, was expected to be a key component of their assessment, but this is not reflected in their scores. How was this measured? d) The collection and transmission of continuous assessment marks to UNEB for the 20 per cent assessment component posed significant challenges for many schools, which lacked essential infrastructure such as computers, electricity and internet connectivity. This raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the compiled marks. Credible sources indicate that certain schools awarded marks to students who did not complete project work, raising concerns about the integrity of the results, especially considering the absence of UNEB’s oversight. Can UNEB provide evidence of project work? The fact is, it is not possible. Do schools have storage facilities for project work? It is worth noting that the UNEB application collapsed in September 2024, which resulted in significant concern, especially with the Alternative Methods of Assessment (AMIS) being introduced. Many head teachers reported difficulties in uploading continuous assessment marks, and some were even advised to use CDs to record marks and deliver to UNEB for upload. Some schools shared their marks with neighbouring schools. It is unclear whether the UNEB App was under test, but the collapse suggests that the system may not have been fully prepared to handle the volume of users or data. Madam Speaker, a circular issued in September 2024 introduced changes to the project work, shifting the focus to S.3-S.4 learners from S.l-S.2 and introducing a new theme. These themes are usually sent late. For example, the one for last year was sent in September when some schools had already submitted their project marks to UNEB. This means that the marks that had earlier been submitted were not in line with the new theme. How was this mitigated? Most of the project work requires materials that cost money, such as ingredients to make soap, threads, fibres, and bottles. This puts a financial burden on the parents and guardians since these materials are no longer free, especially to town schools. Madam Speaker, in Kampala City, which is within the proximity of UNEB, teachers were trained on project work assessment after the results were submitted to UNEB. This means that teachers trained learners on what they did not know themselves. It should be noted that UNEB did not supervise the process of project work or send supervisors to check the final product of the student’s work, as observed with Art assessment in the old curriculum. Yet it is an examination that carries 20 per cent of the final mark. It only sent a checklist for the scores. Students were expected to prepare recordings explaining their project work activities by the school cameramen, and these videos were kept at school. One wonders if there is evidence of these videos in schools or at UNEB. With the rampant examination malpractices reported by UNEB, many times sponsored by the teachers, how credible are the results of project work, which is a stand-alone paper on the pass slip? Many schools are complaining that some of their students had very good projects by UNEB standards but they were given low grades ranging from B to D. It is unfortunate that parents cannot access scripts but those who marked have a long story to tell. Project work also has a component of dissemination, where a learner is supposed to publish a project report through newspapers, exhibitions, magazines, or the library. How does this report then reach UNEB for assessment? Madam Speaker, it is worth noting that the marking exercise was disrupted by examiners boycotting over low pay and heavy workload. This led to the recruitment of new examiners

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to implore the minister - although she has already mentioned that they have done the training of trainers, to consider serious refresher training for those who are already trained. I have information that most of the schools where teachers were trained – those in the rural areas and those within Kampala and around Kampala – have been doing grading differently. Whereas UNEB and the National Curriculum Development Centre, in the end, came up with a new grading system – one which ranges from A up to E – schools have been using the marks range, where the range 2.5 to 3.0 is considered outstanding and the range 1.5 to 2.49 is considered moderate. That is totally different from what came out with UNEB, and so that is why, all over the country, parents and students themselves were also shocked to see a different grading system. I implore the ministry: please, help to do refresher training even for those schools and teachers that are already trained on this new curriculum. Otherwise, it is a very good thing. We welcome it as a country. Thank you.

16384 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Tuesday, 25 February 2025 Therefore, on 3 March 2025, we will meet here to discuss women’s issues and see how best we can be able to help a woman. Once you have an empowered woman, then you have an empowered nation. That is what we need to do. I ask you to support our women out there to be able to come here. Honourable members, we have had a number of issues in schools - and this still takes us to parenting. There is a kid who drowned in a swimming pool. Teachers need to take up the responsibility once parents entrust children to them. You cannot have a kid who has never gone to a swimming pool, just pushed there because they can drown. It is a very bad thing. We also heard about a kid who was slaughtered in Soroti and dumped in a pit latrine. After removing that kid, they got four other skulls in the same latrine. We also heard of a kid who committed suicide in Seeta High School. We need to do a lot of parenting for our children and the teachers equally need to help us with these children. They need to understand the children they are dealing with. Teachers, once you are entrusted with people’s children, please take responsibility for them. We will make sure that if it is you who are entrusted with the kid, you take personal responsibility as a teacher. If you think the school should take responsibility, it is you, the teacher, to take personal responsibility. You cannot be here, the kid does not know how to IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 16TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16407 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 2025 from these lenders. Interest on loans has left many Muslim brothers and sisters out of the money economy since they cannot borrow on interest. In line with inclusivity, we ought to consider those who are against interest borrowing and this opportunity of borrowing from Muslim countries can help to that effect. 2.4 Inadequate information on UDB project beneficiaries Madam Speaker, before this House approves the funding, the Committee on National Economy needs to physically visit funded projects and real beneficiaries. Many times, this country has financed ghost projects, ghost workers and ghost pensioners, among others. The UDB credit is designed to benefit all regions in the country, but in many instances, it is the rich people in Kampala and the surroundings who benefit from these cheap finances to raise their storied buildings and arcades. I am not sure how many people from Luwero, Bukedea, Soroti and other areas of the country benefited from UDB. The committee finds no reason to visit a sample of the project beneficiaries before Parliament approves this loan. Madam Speaker, we recommend that though such loans do not directly impact Government debt, we can leave the aims and objectives for the inception and creation of Uganda Development Bank Limited (UDB) in saving the wanainchi through: i) The ministry responsible for finance updating the House on the exact loan amount needed to recapitalise UDB instead of going for a piecemeal loan as per the main committee report; ii) The ministry of finance, through the Bank of Uganda (BOU), recommends a single- digit interest rate to borrowers; iii) The Committee on National Economy visiting the UDB project beneficiaries and ascertaining the exact impact of these loans on the wanainchi; iv) The House being informed on how the Shariah permission clauses within the agreement will be employed to customers under the Bank of Uganda. Madam Speaker, we all agree that we are supposed to borrow as a country as per our budget, but borrowing needs to be a matter of necessity and it must follow the rules and procedures. I beg to submit.

Madam Chairperson, I wanted to probe the question I had raised to the Attorney-General. You see, the explanation the Attorney-General has given has not convinced me. For example, somebody’s work does not stop at where he works from. Still, let me use the situation of Members of Parliament. Our work does not only belong here. We must also go to the constituency. This applies to any other worker. Somebody works in Kampala, maybe he is going to the village for any other activity and gets a problem. We should be considerate of people. Whatever amount of money they have contributed, and they have worked for five years, they should benefit. That is my view.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. In the past couple of days, we have been grappling with some challenges as Parliament. I am glad that we have taken a stand, as Parliament, to be what we truly are within the law; that is “A people-centred Parliament” speaking out for people whose rights are being violated, and there are some steps in that regard, we are waiting to see how they get quickened. What I am referring to is the situation of Dr Kiiza Besigye and other political prisoners belonging to the National Unity Platform (NUP) and others. We were here and we pushed the Government to take action, especially after the ruling of the Supreme Court. Yesterday, we were in court. We thought that they were going to attain their freedom. The court said that in a few days, we shall hear from them. We are waiting. What we are insistent on is to see that these people get to attain their freedom. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 15TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order.

Yes, and people do change parties. I will not talk about the presiding officer. (Laughter) Let me proceed with the issue I was raising. Madam Speaker, yesterday, the families of these people, together with our lawyers, went to police stations from all the areas where they were abducted from, here in Kampala and Mpigi. A group of our election management committee members went to bury the mother of one of them in Rakai. On their way back, they were kidnapped from Lungala in Mpigi. All those police stations nearby said they did not know what we were talking about. Madam Speaker, today, the Uganda Police Force, on its verified social media account, has put out a statement saying, they are not the ones who arrested these people. Can the Government then account? If it is not the Government, then it is probably some rebel outfit within town. The Government needs to tell us whether it is no longer in charge. Nevertheless, as far as we are concerned, Madam Speaker, of course, it is the Government because many people have been abducted in a similar fashion and they end up at the military court, wherever, in torture chambers and so forth. Madam Speaker, as I wrap up, on Sunday, the Government was celebrating the Janani Luwum Day. The Prime Minister led government officials to Kitgum to celebrate an incredible man who fought against injustice in this country. The government officials kept talking about how Idi Amin’s regime was abducting people and it was evil, but you people are doing the same thing. The law prescribes if you want to arrest somebody - how you get to do that.

16344 MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS b) Conditions for certification under the competence-based assessment. 1. A candidate is eligible to obtain a certificate when he or she sits for a minimum number of eight subjects as provided by the curriculum and must obtain at least a Grade D in any of the subjects sat. This is what is referred to as “Result 1”. 2. A candidate who sat for less than eight subjects or did not sit for compulsory subjects or did not have continuous assessment scores or project work scores is not eligible for a certificate. This is what is referred to as “Result 2”. Note that for the Academic Year 2024, all the candidates had continuous assessment scores, as submitted by the respective schools. Candidates who score only Es in the subjects taken will not get a certificate but will receive a transcript which shows their level of achievement. This is what is referred to as the “Result 3”. 3. Candidates who registered for examinations and did not sit for examinations or sat for a few subjects are not eligible for a certificate but will obtain a transcript. This is what is referred to as “Result 4”. Madam Speaker, all candidates who registered for examinations are eligible for a UCE transcript. Sample transcript Madam Speaker, the transcript and certificate will indicate, among other features, the candidate’s photograph, student’s biodata, subject code and name, the grade in each subject and project work. On the reverse side will be explanations. You can see an example of what we call a transcript for the Uganda National Certificate of Education examination. We have a student there called “UNEB”. The school is also called “UNEB High School”; the box number is 7066, Kampala, Uganda. The candidate’s date of birth, subject codes, subject names and grades are there - (Interruption)

16373 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2025 statement to the House on the financing scheme to private large-scale commercial farmers under the strategic intervention to boost food and animal feed security; 4. The Minister of Works and Transport will update the House on the status of roads and drainage systems in Kampala Capital City and the metropolitan area. Madam Speaker, I beg to submit.

16267 Tuesday, 18 February 2025 continued pre-trial detention of an ailing Dr Besigye? 2. What is the legal basis for the continued detention of Dr Besigye in Luzira? 3. Under what instrument does Uganda Prisons Service continue to hold Dr Besigye? 4. What steps have you taken to comply with the Supreme Court directive? 5. How long will it take to conclude the transfer of all active cases involving civilians from the General Court Martial to the civilian courts? 6. What sustainable action has been taken to address the concerns surrounding the health of Dr Besigye? As a House of Representatives, we are a voice of the voiceless. (Applause) We are elected to speak for those people out there who cannot be in this House. If we cannot do that, then we are not representing our people. The continued detention of unwell suspects sets a dangerous precedent that may be applied to any one of us. Injustice to anyone is injustice to everybody. Today, it is happening to Dr Besigye; tomorrow, it will happen to any of us. There is need to explore other appropriate modalities of confinement, if necessary, other than keeping the ailing suspect in unfavourable conditions that may potentially be fatal. I am aware that there are legal regimes that govern the pre-trial detention on treatment of suspects with peculiar circumstances, notably, the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995, and the Trial on Indictments Act, 1971. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 14TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Yes, because as a Member of Parliament, that is a privilege. You can even have lunch at Kingdom Kampala. We are confusing privileges and facilities.

You are a small Theodore. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 13TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. Could you give that information to the Chairman of the EC, and get back to us on what he says, during Prime Minister’s Time. Honourable members, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students from Kampala International University, Greater West Nile Students’ Association, and they are here to observe the proceedings. They are represented by all the Members of Parliament from West Nine. You stand up. These are your Members, thank you so much. Thank you for coming. Even Hon. Aisha Kabanda is from West Nile. You wave to them. Honourable members, also in the public gallery this afternoon, we have students from Lwantama Child Development Centre in Busiro County North, in Wakiso District. They are represented by Hon. Paul Nsubuga and Hon. Ethel Naluyima. Ethel is there; your Member of Parliament. Thank you so much for coming.

16213 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 13 FEBRUARY 2025 The main commemoration event will start with a church service at the late Archbishop Janani Luwum’s burial ground at Wii-Gweng, Mucwini Ceremonial Grounds in Kitgum District, followed by speeches as usual. The chief guest is expected to be His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda. The main celebrant will be the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, while the guest preacher will be Rt Rev. Ass. Prof. Dr Sheldon Mwesigwa, the Bishop of Ankole Diocese. Other commemoration activities, which the Church of Uganda has organised will include evangelical missions within Kitgum Diocese to mobilise the believers. Furthermore, pilgrims will walk from Kampala, Lira, Gulu and other areas up to Mucwini in affirmation of their faith. A football competition has been organised among the youth at the archdeaconry level and the finals will be played at Mucwini on Friday, 14 February 2025, tomorrow. The winning team shall be given a trophy. On the night of 15 February 2025, there will be an open-air crusade of praise and worship. Consisting of groups from various parishes. Madam Speaker, as I conclude, I invite all Ugandans to attend the 48 th commemoration of Saint Janani Luwum Day on Sunday, 16 February 2025 at Wii-Gweng, Mucwini in Kitgum District. The church service shall begin at 9.00 a.m. sharp. This is a national holiday involving all stakeholders including believers from all denominations, government, diplomatic corps, civil society, the media, the private sector, and the international community. Janani’s martyrdom provides a powerful message of forgiveness and reconciliation among all believers in God and therefore, let us turn up in large numbers to honour, celebrate and provide thanksgiving for this martyr of the 20 th Century. For God and my country. I beg to submit.

16264 REVIEW OF THE RULES OF PROCEDURE member of the Committee on Human Rights together with Hon. Mariam Naigaga. We moved around Kampala looking for what were alleged to be safe houses. We were holding the Government accountable, despite the fact that we are members of the Government. We went to Kyengera, Kabuusu, and all the places. You can look for those reports. It is wrong for anyone to think that members of the Government do not care about human rights and that the committee should be led by the Opposition because it holds the Government more accountable. It would be unreasonable for any Member of Parliament to think that human rights do not apply to him and that they apply to the others; and that the onus should be on the Opposition to oversee what happens on this side. My humble prayer is that we maintain the status quo.

Thank you, Madam Speaker for the good communication and I am happy that two of the Ministers for Education and Sports are here. We thank you for releasing the results. However, it is very important that the new curriculum was supported; although we had issues here, we went on with it. But the biggest challenge now is parents not knowing what their children achieved, and that is about educating the masses. We have seen every child got “Result 1”. My wife is a nursery school teacher, and she said, “This time, the results are similar to the ones IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 12TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16105 Tuesday, 11 February 2025 Now that the 15 th of March will be a Sunday, it will require us to have the ministerial statements in the House between the 11 th and 13 th of March. I hope the ministers on the Front Bench will relay that information. I see the two - they are now three. I am counting them out of 83. Additionally, I will require the Leader of the Opposition to ensure that he submits the alternative policy proposals by the 27 th of March, given that the timeline of 29March, stipulated under rule 147, also falls on a Saturday; you can do it earlier than that time. Honourable members, as you may be aware, Section 4 of the Leadership Code Act, 2002 requires a leader to specifically declare his income, assets, and liabilities after every two years - to declare poverty – yes. So, honourable members, I urge you to declare your riches and poverty to the Inspector General of Government (IGG). Fill in the forms so that you are not caught by the law. That will help us in accountability and transparency in whatever we do and it will help you, as leaders, because you know very well if you do not do that, you can lose your seat. Let us do that and abide by the law. Thank you so much for coming to this afternoon session. Hon. Atkins, what happened? These days you sit there. Thank you so much - honourable members, allow me to amend the Order Paper to receive a report from the Leader of the Opposition on his IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 11TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. I appreciate it, Madam Speaker. To let you know, sometime next week, our chairperson LC V at the district level will be travelling to Kampala and he is going to join the leaders in this House by the privilege of being Members of Parliament - we COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. That is a very good point, honourable member. Whenever clarification is needed, it needs to be done. First, here indeed we talk because we can only do our work through talking; that must be put on record. However, number two, and which I was cautioning honourable colleagues to know, is that where we have powers of resolution and conclusive decisions, it is expressly stated in the Rules of Procedure of Parliament and also in the laws. For example, our power to approve the budget, Government appointees and to make laws. However, where you want me to also pronounce the House on powers to go and implement court judgments where the House was not a party or on powers to ensure people are released from prison – that is why I also to put it to you and asked: “Honourable colleagues, advise me; what do we do?” This was so because, in this House, we put our IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 10TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.13 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. Mr Speaker, I am comforted by the statement of the minister informing us that the Electoral Commission has perused through the recommendations made by this House and has made commitments to implement them as much as they can. I want to particularly point out an area of concern that there are areas that have informed us of difficulties in accessing both network and electricity. Those particular regions should be given special consideration when they review and evaluate the whole programme. Secondly, I want to implore the minister to come back and inform us officially as Parliament. I know the Electoral Commission may make a statement but it denies Members of Parliament the opportunity to interface. As soon as the Electoral Commission is done, it would be prudent for the minister to come and inform the House. One particular issue, Mr Speaker, that I would like to emphasise, and I will illustrate it with an example - In the last cycle of elections, Lira City East Division, which is a constituency of 117,000 voters was a result of a merger of five administrative units, five subcounties, two divisions and three subcounties to form one division. The Electoral Commission provided a demarcation for local councillors to the city. These were five. In the current demarcation, they have collapsed all the five into only one, meaning the local government councillor has the same number of voters and area as the area Member of Parliament. The implication is - as you know, Mr Speaker, in the local government elections - for you to be eligible to be nominated, you must be a registered voter in an electoral area. So, the councillors are now panicking because they come from different areas and now they only have one area. This is an area I wanted the minister to take particular interest in. The Electoral Commission says they are basing on Section 120 of the Local Governments Act, which gives them the mandate to demarcate based on the number of voters and other parameters. However, there is a big concern now. Imagine a local councillor going to the city council will now have to campaign in 87 polling stations in Lira City East Division alone. If you go to Lira City West, and I believe the same is happening in Kampala, Mbarara, and in all the new cities - Therefore, I want to implore the minister to go back and work with the Electoral Commission and inform the House how they will address that impasse of the local government councillors who are now in panic. In fact, many are going to lose out and the risk is that a city council is likely to have less than two members in plenary. Once the vice chairperson is appointed and the Executive is constituted, the entire city might have only a total of five councillors. They cannot form government, in other words. This is an area that I wanted the minister probably to clarify on or to consult with the Electoral Commission and address us on, in consultation with the Minister of Local Government. Thank you.

Mr Speaker, I thank honourable members for welcoming our speakers and deputy speakers from Kakumiro District. (Applause) Mr Speaker, I move under Rule 28 of our Rules of Procedure, which requires me, as the Leader of Government Business, to make a statement in the House regarding the Government business for the succeeding week. I, therefore, submit the following businesses for the succeeding week, from 11 to 13 February 2025; 1. The Uganda Railways Bill, 2025. 2. The Minister of Health will give a statement on the status of; a) The Mpox disease in the country. b) Ebola outbreak in the country. c) Cholera outbreak in Lamwo District. 3. Statement by the minister for the presidency on the commemoration of Archbishop Janani Luwum Memorial Day. 4. Statement by the minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Area on the status of solid waste/garbage management in the Greater Kampala and metropolitan areas. 5. Statement by the Minister of Water and Environment on the weather forecast in the country. I beg to submit.

Thank you so much, Mr Speaker. We will not be scared to do the right thing. One, I know my brother is aware that Pakwach is moving in. This money we are appropriating is going to help us cross to West Nile. If we do not – of course he who mourns should understand why he is mourning more than the bereaved. We have a challenge in West Nile; we can no longer cross. Very soon, Pakwach will move in. We are getting accidents from Karuma to Pakwach. You can imagine; you want to hold us here in Kampala. This is a serious issue; it is so critical. (Interjection) I need your protection, Mr Speaker.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I also join you in empathising and sympathising with the great family of the Aga Khan, the President of the nation and all those who have been supported by the goodwill and generosity of the person upon the loss. Mr Speaker, thank you for the opportunity; however, I have a burden in my heart. The burden in my heart has everything to do with the Constitution. I am a great believer in the Constitution and constitutionalism, democracy and democratisation, the law and the rule of IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 9TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.18 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. That is where my issues now arise from. In fact, under section 19, the minister is entitled to come to Parliament to seek authorisation to transfer money from one vote to the other. There are two operational words under section 19. “Parliament may, by resolution, authorise the minister to reallocate funds from one vote to another.” When you interrogate the word “reallocate”, it means there must be something in existence. For you to be relocated from Kampala to Lira, means you have been resident in Kampala. You cannot reallocate a non-existent amount of money. (Applause) So, the minister should be telling us that this amount of money exists under Vote 119, which

16068 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION [The Deputy Speaker] He told me he had already drafted something for the ministry of finance. I know there was a fear that we might want to open up the Public Finance Management Act so much. However, we said that we have an issue we want to sort out now. I gave a very good example. I met the team from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Members of one vote came to appear before four committees with skeletal staff. You could see that they were scattered and they said so. They did not know what to do because of how everything was dropped here and there. Therefore, the issue of amending the Public Finance Management Act to provide for programme-based budgeting so that we align with our committees here, is very critical and we are going to ensure that finance does it. The House is adjourned to tomorrow at 2.00 p.m. (The House rose at 6.55 p.m. and adjourned until Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 2.00 p.m.)

Thank you. There are two things. Number one, I do not look at him as a party to the case now. I look at him as the chief legal adviser of the Government, who was given directives to implement by the court. So, it is from that background. Now, we no longer have issues. The issues were settled at the court level. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 8TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.10 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am so grateful that you have allowed me to raise this matter of national importance. But I also want to let you know that all of us had thought that we would get an opportunity to contribute to the debate that was before us. Now that you have ruled that we proceed, I want to remind this House about the plight of travellers on the Kampala-Jinja road, which is of national importance. What is happening on that highway can no longer be classified as a traffic jam but a crisis in its own style. The point of concern now is the risk we are running as a country of trucks filled with thousands of litres of fuel stuck in a traffic jam for hours on a congested road. Some of us would not want to be prophets of doom, but it would be very bad if we did not discuss this. If it was not for the grace of the Lord, who protects Ugandans, any slight mistake would result in thousands of people and property being lost on that road. Just a little fire or something nearer to that, we would sit here if some of us are not victims and count the losses. I know that it is not easy to construct a road but I think that there are technical things we can do to mitigate the problem. For example, I remember some years back when I was young, trailers carrying goods would move at a particular time –

To mitigate the crisis on the Kampala-Jinja Highway, I pray.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I want to thank Hon. Nambooze for bringing up such a question that touches everybody. I would like to inform this House and the country that the Ministry of Works and Transport is fast-tracking the Kampala-Jinja Express Highway. Secondly, Mr Speaker, the drivers on that road, especially those big trucks carrying fuel, have been advised to use Mukono-Katosi-Jinja road so that they avoid the traffic around that corner.

That is right, Mr Speaker. I agree with you, but for now, I thought I was giving information that can be used as we wait for the Minister of Works and Transport to come in. They had put a signpost to divert drivers who are using that highway to use the Mukono-Katosi-Jinja route because those are big ones. Then, between Kampala and Mukono – (Interjections) – can I finish? Between Kampala and Mukono, there is railway transport that has been improvised now so that those people can use it. I thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on a matter of national importance about the road from Butalangu to Ngoma and from Ngoma to Kinyogoga. There is a section from Kirangazi to Ngoma, which is becoming impassable. There are also sections on Ngoma-Kinyogoga Road. I contacted the Minister of Works and Transport, he sent us machines, but the machines are grounded up to now. The engineers on ground are telling us to wait up to April. Mr Speaker, those are the only two roads from Ngoma to Butalangu and from Ngoma to Kinyogoga that connect Nakaseke North to Nakaseke Central and to Nakaseke South. They are also the only two roads that connect that constituency to Kampala. April is very far; we cannot wait. The engineers are complaining that they lack the spare parts only. I request the Ministry of Works and Transport to intervene so that the machines are back on the road. Thank you so much, Mr Speaker.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I think they have heard. (Laughter) Unfortunately you called my name when I had gone to facilitate for them to be allowed in because they told me it was a big delegation and they needed clearance from the DPC to allow them in; that is where I had gone, and apologies for that. Mr Speaker, the traders who have come are the representatives of a larger group of some of the traders from Mbale City who were affected by some fires a few days ago. I think some of you saw what happened in the media. Over 20 shops got burnt and they lost property worth millions or billions of shillings. Many of them are currently devastated by what happened. They sent a delegation to come to Kampala to meet the Prime Minister but unfortunately she was held up. I opted to come and raise this matter, such that it can be picked up by the Office of the Prime Minister – to see how best our traders can be helped because they have lost property and many of them have loans and financial hardships. That is why I am raising this matter to the Office of the Prime Minister.

15990 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT Members also argued that their constituents have incurred a lot of costs associated with transportation and wastage of a lot of time on commuting to and from their villages to the subcounty. The Electoral Commission confirmed to the committee that it had indeed supplied registration kit at subcounty level, rather than at the parish or ward level. However, the EC clarified that the kit was supposed to rotate at parish levels on different days during the exercise. According to the EC, the total number of kit deployed for this exercise is 2,703 biometric enrolment kit, instead of the required 5,000 kit. The distribution was made based on the subcounties, except for Kampala, Wakiso and Mukono which have been allocated additional kit per parish or ward. The EC confirmed that it had received 35,000 out of 36,000 tablets from Uganda Bureau of Statistics and the remaining tablets were undergoing verification before issuance to EC. According to the EC, the kit obtained from UBOS is not suitable for this exercise, since they lack some of the features needed to carry out this work. The committee was informed that the 36,000 kits obtained from UBOS would be used for purposes of biometric voter verification during polling day. The committee observed that the practice of registering voters at the subcounty in some areas of the country, instead of the parish or ward, contravenes section 20 of the Electoral Commission Act. The committee notes that this practice was born out of expediency due to the few numbers of kit that was made available to the EC. The committee is aware that whereas the EC had requested for 5,000 biometric enrolment kit, only 2,703 biometric enrolment kits were made available. In order for the EC to comply with its statutory duties, it made the practical decision of distributing the available kits based on subcounties, in order to ensure that the exercise is carried out within the prescribed time. The committee notes that currently, Uganda has 2,211 subcounties/municipal divisions/ town boards, 10,690 parishes/ wards, 70,000 villages/cells, 11 cities, 146 districts, 302 counties, 31 municipalities and 34,000 polling stations. And if the kit for registration was to be stationed at every parish or ward, as required under section 20 of the Electoral Commission Act, the EC would require 10,690 kit, a number that is currently out of their reach. The committee finds that the kit available to EC was insufficient, making it difficult for the EC to have full time kit at every parish or ward. Therefore, the committee also finds that the insufficient numbers of kit deployed for voter verification has affected the ability of the EC to carry out the voter verification exercise smoothly and with little disruption to the normal lives of the people of Uganda. Recommendations In light of the above, the committee recommends that: 1. The EC should consider extending the deadline for the voter verification exercise, in light of the challenges faced in the process. (Applause) 2. The Government should prioritise procurement of election kit and other ICT equipment needed by EC; and 3. The EC, in compliance with section 20 of the Electoral Commission Act, should ensure that the voter verification exercise is carried out at the parish or ward. The other issue was the functionality of the kits used for voter verification and update. Members were concerned about the functionality of the registration kits and have argued that they are obsolete and constantly break down, thereby delaying the registration process.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I would like to add my voice to the committee report. These animals do not require a travel visa or passport, so they just move anywhere. Whatever affects Abim affects Otuke as well. Each year, we have buffalos which come from Kidepo that is about 190 kilometres from Otuke. Just last year in July, we had two lions which escaped and came to Otuke. The situation was worse because by 7.00 p.m., everybody would go to bed because they were living in fear. The only way is to advise the Government to come up with a solution of installing a fence; this is what will help. If we do not do this, even people in the districts which are far away from the game parks will always have these challenges. They will always be killed. Just last week in Bweyogerere in Kampala, there was a leopard; I do not know where it came from. I personally saw it at night when a dog was barking throughout - a huge wildcat. In the night, we do not know what is going on. We do not expect to have any animals coming to these places. Thank you.

Is the motion seconded? (Members rose_) Okay, it is seconded by Hon. Martin Mugarra, Hon. Rusoke, the honourable member from Karamoja, Hon. Solomon, Gen. Elwelu, Hon. Mushemeza, Hon. Byakatonda, Hon. Kayondo, Hon. Rwabushaija, Hon. Kateshumbwa, Hon. Paparu, Hon. Muhanga, Hon. Okori-Moe, Minister for People with Disabilities, the honourable member from Kanungu and the IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 7TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.09 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15888 THE NATIONAL BUDGET FRAMEWORK PAPER FOR THE FY 2025/2026 - 2029/2030 Public Debt The Accountant-General, in a statement which is attached to the audit report, states that public debt has increased from Shs 97.5 trillion in June 2023 to Shs 109 trillion in June 2024. Honourable members, our country has been mortgaged. This debt represents 53 per cent of our declared GDP of Shs 202 trillion (which is $53.3 billion). Debt to GDP ratio is a comparison of what you are producing as a country and the money you owe other people. This huge debt is inconsistent with the stated objective outlined in the Charter of Fiscal Responsibility. The objective is to keep the debt below 50 per cent of GDP. The debt comprises money borrowed to finance the budget, domestic arrears, pensions, and gratuities. What should worry you more is that the Government wants to finance the Shs 52 trillion – next financial year’s budget – by borrowing another Shs 24 trillion, because it projects to raise revenue only of Shs 33 trillion. By approving the Budget Framework Paper, you are giving the Government a green light to borrow. They will be coming here and you should expect Hon. Musasizi to continue trafficking loan requests to Parliament during the course of the next financial year and he will be reminding you, “You are the one who approved the budget; now I am bringing money to finance it.” The figure of the total public debt is also contested. In calculating public debt, F inance does not include domestic arrears. They have even forced the Auditor-General to do the same thing. Finance claims that public debt is at Shs 94 trillion, rising from Shs 86 trillion they declared last financial year. One of the tactics finance is using these days is to exclude un-disbursed loans, yet we pay commitment fees on them. Therefore, they are trying to exclude many things, making the debt look smaller. Still on debt, I am looking at the Vote, which is meant to be servicing debt; treasury operations. The total budget that we are approving in the Budget Framework Paper – I want to repeat – is Shs 57 trillion, but nearly half of it (Shs 20 trillion) – which is 35 per cent as usual – is for debt servicing. The table below shows the breakdown of this total debt servicing. I hope the table can be flushed there. It has details here of what we will be paying. Of interest here, Mr Speaker, you have Roko, you have the DRC; if you look at claims payment, we are still paying money to the DRC because – the Attorney-General is here; we lost a case before the International Court of Justice. This NRM Government was accused of many crimes in Congo, including rape. If you want, you can go to the ICJ website, including rape, plundering gold and timber, and many other things. As a result, we were told to pay $325 million, which comes to over Shs 1.2 trillion. For you to appreciate that figure, we have just borrowed money to do roads in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, which is just about the same figure, but at least, every metropolitan, including my constituents, have some roads done. These people who went and plundered Congo and stole gold, they should even stop them from coming here because this money should be- the report is explained – (Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka rose_) – If you followed the format of the chair, I see you are restless . (Laughter)

15892 THE NATIONAL BUDGET FRAMEWORK PAPER FOR THE FY 2025/2026 - 2029/2030 financing the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). URA clears people’s goods but they remain stuck because UNBS does not have staff and the capacity to clear them. I have very many people coming to me saying, “We pay taxes but we remain stuck with UNBS”; it cannot move, reason being, UNBS is not facilitated to do that” yet it is collecting the money. Then, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC); honourable colleagues are always in my office saying, “Help us get masts.” I had to call the Executive Director of UCC and he said, “But there is a fund, which we use that you get from telecoms.” I found out that 50 per cent of that fund is taken to the Consolidated Fund. It is not helping us to digitise and give affirmative action for the rural areas. If it is a fund meant for that, why don’t we give that money to UCC, and it helps those of us who come from rural areas? (Applause) I am tired of MPs coming to my office, and I have to lobby and call here and there when there is a fund created for that purpose. On the issue of publicity, honourable colleagues, you remember when we were discussing digital transformation, we talked of Signet, but as I speak, Signet’s free-to-air service is only in Kampala. Your voters who cannot afford to pay monthly dues do not watch you on TV, yet we programmed very well that we must be watched by local people who cannot afford monthly payments. Why don’t we conclude these issues? Finally, I received a call from someone who said, “Rt Hon. Deputy Speaker, I want to understand this: How come you are destroying drugs when we do not have them in our health centres?” Someone hears that you destroyed drugs worth over Shs 300 billion, according to the Auditor-General, but they are looking for Panadol in our health centres. They are stuck. Someone will ask, “Did you focus more on those drugs which expire so that you make money and leave out those which are essential for us?” Finally, the Committee on Natural Resources has talked about the issue of iron ore and mining. Hon. Kamuntu’s area is good for that. The licences are not given to the factories. We are telling factories to stop importing steel and raw materials, and instead use iron ore from our area, but we say it without giving them the licences. You find that someone has around 20 licences in this country – be it gold or others – and they are vending them. One manufacturer told me that a holder of a licence who is not using it for anything asked him for $8 million. As a manufacturer, he cannot get it, but a holder is vending it at $8 million. “Give it to me and I become rich; I do not care about the rest.” I just wanted to record these observations, as I also get feedback from the public. We now open the debate; I will start with Dr Byakatonda, followed by Prof. Mushemeza. For those who were not here when we were starting, I will not allow procedure. I will first pick the people who came here by 10.00 a.m. (Applause) I will give you a chance to submit, and your procedure will be covered from there. It is just a debate. Dr Byakatonda, Prof. Mushemeza, Hon. Solomon Chelangat, Hon. Sarah Opendi, Hon. William Museveni, Hon. Kenneth Kiiza, Hon. Ruyonga and Hon. Donald Katalihwa.

15907 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 30 JANUARY 2025 pains me to see our fellow citizens drinking water from collecting points on the tarmac roads; the potholes have become collecting points for drinking water. Yet, in the same country, we have communities that have clean and safe drinking water for grazing animals. Mr Speaker, Parliament should find money to provide clean and safe drinking water for animals and fellow citizens. Mr Speaker, I think this is not too much. As our leader, I am very sure you are paying too, that every time – can we provide clean and safe drinking water to all Ugandans in this particular budget? Mr Speaker, as I said, I do not want to be accused as somebody who preaches water and drinks wine. When we come to the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and say, “Where do we get the money?” can we begin with ourselves? Mr Speaker, this is what I want to propose: According to the Auditor-General, every month, we pay Shs 900 million for Kingdom Kampala premises. I want to begin from there. You allocated me an office which is as big as a conference room or a boardroom. If we can find money to support our teachers and doctors by paying them well and then we say, “Can we vacate Kingdom Kampala?” Mr Speaker, I would be ready to have my office partitioned to accommodate that so that as Parliament, we save Shs 900 million to finance reallocation to support our fellow citizens. This is where I want to begin. Mr Speaker, I am ready. You can make it an open office and I am ready to share with any of the Members. Otherwise, we have to lead the way. We cannot continue to blame wasteful expenditures on the present. Let us begin just right here in the House – (Member timed out.)

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, this goes directly to the Attorney- General and the minister for finance. As you are aware, under Section 25(3) of the Public Finance Management Act, a minister has powers to appropriate 10 per cent of the budget without coming to Parliament. This 10 per cent arises from Section 26 of the same Act, pertaining to the Contingency Fund, which is 3.5 per cent of the total budget. I want you to confirm to us that you do these budgets intentionally so that you can have the 10 per cent without a recourse to Parliament. If not, why don’t we amend the law to say that, “Instead of the approved budget, what was spent the previous financial year should be applicable.” Two, Mr Speaker, they talked about ghost schools, and how education is very important. I have seen a school in Mbale, called Mbale Secondary School. It is under the schools called faith-based or government-aided. Mbale Secondary School is 100 per cent a government-aided school. How do you leave schools, that are meant to benefit, and you put Mbale Secondary School? This is on page 386, number 162. I want the committee to explain to us how they brought in a ghost school, which is already a government-aided school. In fact, we would propose that that money be applied to start Mbale University, which all of us are clamouring for. Mr Speaker, I have noticed in these budgets every year that, if you look through the lists of those projects that are going to be implemented, you notice that they have been brought here year in, year out, like the schools, health units, and whatever. Why do you recycle? We need a commitment from the Government that if anything stays - because these are millions – by the way, these are the schools that always appear, and we do not know how they get onto the list. I had my brother saying that they proposed four seed schools in their area, and none appeared. They must tell us the criteria for choosing these schools and health centres. This is becoming very interesting. Is it because you are Members of the budget committee, that you include on the list what belongs to you? This must be explained to us. This may be the reason the President returned the last budget saying, “You are making mistakes.” For the first time, we must deal with how these lists got to the budget committee. Three, Mr Speaker, I have here, a school in Kampala. I can say it is in Mukono. They are charging Shs 3,865,000. It is a private school but is headed by one person on the Front Bench – (Interjections) – per term, about Shs 4 million. That is a school MPs can afford – (Interjections)- exactly . That is a very expensive school. That means the recourse for other poor Ugandans is public schools - if a public school is not in an area with good teachers, we are in trouble. I want to make a proposal - the Government right now has created many subcounties. Those that used to be villages are now subcounties. Those that used to be subcounties are now

15930 THE NATIONAL BUDGET FRAMEWORK PAPER FOR THE FY 2025/2026 - 2029/2030 and they said, “The committee observed that the above information has never been provided to Parliament in all previous National Budget Framework Papers.” Mr Speaker, we are here to make laws and to protect them. Now, I want to be guided by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the Attorney-General – how should we correct these anomalies? We also have the issue of the Contingency Fund. It is provided for under Section 26 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) for a certain amount which is not fully provided. At what point should we correct this anomaly? Mr Speaker, Members have raised the issue of domestic arrears. And when you look at Section 15 of PFMA – commitment of the approved budget – it talks about work plans, recruitment plans, and so on. Section 21 of the same law says the accounting officers are not supposed to commit Government where resources are not. Why are these domestic arrears coming when you read those two sections of the law? I want the Attorney-General to guide this House. People have lost property, including some contractors. I have a contractor in my place; he got a contract for the road. Out of Shs 1.4 billion, they have paid him Shs 500 million. He said they have not added him money, and he has abandoned the project. He said he will not go back. That is what he told me, frankly, yesterday. He said, “I will not go back; I am demanding money from Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and the Ministry of Works and Transport. Where do you want me to get money from?” Now, whatever has been paid is wasted. Are we going to continue losing money in that form? Why does the Government budget and then midway the minister for finance – they have changed from suppressing – we used to have a terminology called “suppressing,” but now they call it “repurposing”. So, why again do you repurpose the budget midway when we have approved work plans -? (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. As a Christian, I believe in God the Father and the Holy Spirit – (Interjections) – and the Son. I also believe in Mulago Hospital. Whenever I fall sick, that is where I go. We seem not to be investing a lot in that hospital. That Shs 15.5 billion has been an unfunded priority for the last three financial years. However, even with the current condition, Mulago gives us Shs 5.5 billion in non-tax revenue. The whole of the sixth floor, which was designed to be for private wing services – I was there one time as chairperson of the Committee on Health, and they had to bring me water in a basin because there was no running water. If we fix all these, then there is no reason why Ugandans will go to private hospitals. We can even take the revenue from there to about Shs 20 billion. My colleague has mentioned about the women’s specialised hospital. If we put it up to its capacity, there will be another Shs 20 billion. I would have expected medical tourism to be in the National Development Plan (NDP IV). I raised it; Uganda is centrally positioned in a neighbourhood where we are more competitive. If we brought Mulago and the Uganda Cancer Institute to speed, we are building a new heart hospital in Naguru. Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is about to finish their hospital, and we have Aga Khan in Nakawa. With all these, we need to tap into the sources of domestic revenue because we have seen people going to Nairobi for PET scans at $1,000, but we should be able to keep that here. Finally, Mr Speaker – I had forgotten; Lubowa is also progressively coming on board. Mr Speaker, regarding the issue of tax exemption for gym and sports equipment, we are looking at these as luxury commodities, but I think we need to look at them as public health commodities so that we can curtail the exodus of people with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to hospitals. For these night football pitches that are mushrooming all over Kampala and upcountry, how do we ensure that the artificial turf they import is tax-free so that our youth can be kept physically fit and out of crime? I would also like to support my honourable colleague that Atutur Hospital needs an X-ray as soon as yesterday – then Bundibugyo Hospital and, of course, Koboko Hospital. Those three should be given urgent priority. Thank you.

15938 THE NATIONAL BUDGET FRAMEWORK PAPER FOR THE FY 2025/2026 - 2029/2030 that are struggling; their budgets are very minimal, and we are not financing them, but we are even going for the membership fees. I know you are looking for money, but – Honourable minister, I also raised this about Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and I want to interest the chairperson of the Committee on Presidential Affairs in this. I think we are among a few cities that have 150 acres of green space in the middle of the city – that is Kampala Golf Club. But what do we do? We channel sewage and all these floods from Yusuf Lule Road into that green space. We should protect and invest in that green space. We have guests —someone said, “You are so lucky to have over 150 acres in the middle of the city.” We should invest in and protect it. It should be one of the things that we promote for our tourism. Tell me a city that has 150 acres, and then you just channel sewage and floods there. When members start raising some little money to maintain it, you also come for a tax! I had interested the committee chairperson in ensuring that when you engage with KCCA, KCCA supports that golf club so that it remains very clean. That is where all our ambassadors that we want to market Uganda to, go to play. All people who contribute a lot to your taxes — the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) — go there. However, when they are moving around, they see sewage – faecal matter. And this is an ambassador that you want to tell to come and visit Kampala. It is not a lot of money. These are things we should give priority to. Therefore, the minister for finance, when we run to you, help and protect that green space. For example, Shs 2 billion would do a great job. I had picked Hon. Okot, Hon. Kwizera, Dr Bhoka and Hon. Grania. Honourable colleagues, if you did not write your name here, stop looking at me, trying to make signs. Hon. Batuwa, I would advise that you ask your neighbours because I saw you coming in. Ask them about what we did before you came in. People who went for lunch, you have enjoyed yours; for us, we have not enjoyed. Let us also enjoy our time here, the same way you enjoyed lunch.

But you do not have time. You can only give what you have; your time was already up. – No, honourable member, the clarification I was making was simple. These clubs do not even make money. In fact, golf clubs all over the world do not make money, but they protect the area through green spaces. Go to Fort Portal, Arua, they are the only ones – Mbarara, Kampala or Entebbe. I played golf with the Speaker of Singapore, and he said, “I really cannot believe it; I am next to a zoo, and I am in a very green area”. The oldest club in East Africa – Tororo. But in the end, if you do not support their maintenance, they will be stolen like the one of Gulu. They did not see any value; so they shared it. They built houses even in Lira. You are going to lose them. Now, they are being protected using the little money that comes from members. If you tax it, then you are taxing the land, and it will be gone. That is it. These clubs will be nowhere. In fact, you do not budget for them. They are just held in trust and protected by the public. Hon.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, I implore the minister for finance to reconsider prioritising the funding of Bunyoro and Busoga universities. Since 1986, the NRM Government has pledged a public university to the people of Bunyoro. There has been a big mismatch between the allocation to the agro-industrialisation sector and the National Development Plan (NDP) IV. The NDP IV emphasises allocating Shs 2.44 trillion to the agriculture sector, but what they have allocated is just 3 per cent. I implore the Government to honour its commitment to the just concluded Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) 2025 Summit Declaration of Kampala, of allocating at least 10 per cent to the agriculture sector, to ensure increased production and food security. Mr Speaker, I also implore the Government to consider securing funds to operationalise the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2022. This is to stop the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) from harassing fishermen on the lakes. Finally, Mr Speaker, last year, a number of teachers and health workers were scrapped off the payroll. These people have been in the hospitals treating our people, and the teachers have been teaching our students. The minister told us that they had reinstated them, but up to today, they have never been paid. I request the minister for finance to reconsider putting that money for their salaries in the budget. I submit, Mr Speaker. Thank you.

15949 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 30 JANUARY 2025 to consider that road, as it will help avert traffic jam from Kampala - (Member timed out.)

Thank you. Honourable colleagues, I gave guidance much earlier that procedure is for the business of the day. It only applies to the Order Paper; anything outside the Order Paper - I know you want your people to see you, and that is paramount. That is why we are here; our people need to see us speaking for them. However, I guided that for matters which you feel should be on the Order Paper, please, come to my office and approach me and say, “Rt Hon. Speaker, there is a pending matter that you have not worked on.” With that, I am able to call the chairperson and verify with the Clerk whether we have already received the report and not given it space on the Order Paper and we sort it out. It is much quicker that way. I will follow up on the matter. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 6TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.12 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order . COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I am standing in for several parents of Wakiso, Kampala and several other districts that are affected by the marking and grading of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB). Mr Speaker, we are all aware that UNEB is mandated to manage the examination process and ensure that at the end of each academic year, we have credible results in this country. Unfortunately, several stakeholders are affected in the education sector in a way that we see several lapses in the grading process of UNEB and the way it has been handling several results on board. This is evidenced in the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) that were recently released, which affected several schools in Wakiso and Kampala. As much as we have seen the scouting going on - which was very fine - the conduct of the examination was real and the spying network was on, but the discontentment with the results by several pupils made us feel like a lot had happened. My prayer is that a thorough investigation is instituted in UNEB’s model of marking and grading. I need that information as the Shadow Minister of Education and Sports - (Interruption) -

15804 STANDING COMMITTEE R E PORT school that has been performing for the last 10 years, posting good grades, and this time it comes out as the worst school. Members, kindly give me attention because I am giving important information. Secondly, some of these schools have children whose parents picked them from Kampala and took them to rural schools. These very children of primary six got first class grades; aggregate four. Then those in primary seven did mocks and mid-term exams and were getting aggregate five, but now, they got aggregate 17, when the PLE results came out. The most challenging issue with the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) – and it is the practice everywhere; when the parents complain, the child, the teacher who taught the child and the school all say that they do not agree with these marks. “UNEB, show us the scripts of our children; we are ready to pay because that is the principle.” Even in universities, it is the principle that once there is a complaint about the marks, the school pays a cost to UNEB to find out the performance, but UNEB is rejecting this. Mr Speaker, let us agree on this: Most of the Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools in Kampala employ teachers on a private basis because they do not have enough teachers. Then you have schools like Kampala Parents, Green Hill, and Hillside, where you are sure that the school has more staff teaching children – something is happening in UNEB that we must exhaust. Let us not talk about our rural schools or what, but we need to find out the challenges. It is absolutely not proper to mislead anybody here – (Member timed out.) Mr Speaker, as I conclude-

Thank you, Mr Speaker. My prayer is that a thorough investigation be instituted in UNEB’s mode of marking and grading of candidates for schools in Kampala and Wakiso and the neighbouring districts and the entire country, such that, at least parents who dedicate a lot and teachers who dedicate a lot get satisfaction with what UNEB is doing. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker, for giving me the opportunity. I rise on a matter of national importance. Business-owners in Arua, Koboko, Yumbe and Moyo have expressed their frustration over the continuous robbery of their goods in a village called Enzeva, in Arua District along the Kampala-Nebbi Road. Usually, the buses and lorries carrying people and goods along this highway are waylaid by robbers wielding guns, arrows, pangas, and so on. They normally take advantage of the darkness, the steep climb, and the potholed section of the road at Enzeva. As the vehicles slow down, they are waylaid, and all the goods are taken. Our prayers, Mr Speaker: May I request the police to have routine security patrols? Secondly, may the police also set up a station at that black spot? Thirdly, the minister of works is here; may that section of the road be worked on so that the vehicles move smoothly. Thank you very much.

15812 STANDING COMMITTEE R E PORT ary 2025 after capturing a significant territory earlier this month in North Kivu Province. On Monday, 27 January 2025, the M23 announced the capture of Goma. The conflict between the M23 and the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) has escalated in spite of determined mediation efforts and progress toward the cessation of hostilities under both Luanda and Nairobi processes. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the innocent civilians, the MONUSCO and SAMIDRC peacekeepers that have lost their lives in the fighting taking place in the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces of DRC. We are deeply concerned about the escalation of tensions in eastern DRC that have led to massive displacement of people, with likely consequential pressure on the Republic of Uganda, which already hosts more than 560,000 refugees from the DRC alone. Honourable colleagues, yesterday, our embassy in Kinshasa was attacked, looted and burnt by rioters, triggered by the developments in Goma. The incident is a violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961) and we condemn this in the strongest terms. Fortunately, no embassy staff was harmed. It has been determined that they are safe and the embassy premises are now secured. Last evening, we received assurances from the Government of the DRC that appropriate security measures had been taken and the situation in Kinshasa is under control. The decision to suspend Uganda Airlines flights to Kinshasa, announced yesterday, is prudent under the circumstances as we continue to monitor the situation, which is fast- changing. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is assessing practical means to provide consular or emergency services to Ugandans resident in the DRC and, as need arises, will inform the public in due course of the measures. Honourable members, this is a protracted conflict with a long history of misjudgement and external interference. A multiplicity of factors including ethnicity, citizenship, mineral and economic exploitation, and youth unemployment continue to fuel the conflict. We, therefore, would like to take this opportunity to categorically state and clarify that the Republic of Uganda dissociates itself from the activities of armed, belligerent groups in the DRC. It is important to re-state the context to Government of Uganda’s participation in resolution of this conflict since 2013 in order to provide clarity. On 12 December 2013, in Nairobi, two declarations and one communique were signed, concluding the Kampala Dialogue between the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23. The documents detailed each side’s commitments, including demobilisation and reintegration of former rebels and the DRC commitment to facilitate the return of refugees. Following the defeat of the M23 armed group in November 2013, former fighters were received in Kisoro, Uganda, disarmed by the Uganda security, their arms inspected and handed over to the Government of the DRC at Kasindi. The ex-combatants were regularly visited by DRC government officials, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism, MONUSCO, Defence Attachés accredited to Uganda, and international journalists for monitoring and documentation exercises. It should be noted that the ex-combatants were not prisoners but refugees. The Uganda Government has, in good faith, regularly shared information with the DRC Government on matters relating to activities of the M23 ex-combatants. By 2015, all disarmed ex- combatants that had taken refuge in Uganda, save for non-citizens of DRC, had been handed over to Government of the DRC. Honourable colleagues, we commend the Luanda Process under the stewardship of H is Excellency Joao Lourenco, the President of the Republic of Angola. We recognise the Nairobi Process under the guidance of former president, Uhuru Kenyatta. [Mr Mulimba] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

15830 STANDING COMMITTEE R E PORT necessitate a lot of money arise, the centre tags and holds onto that. For example, the Ministry responsible for Teso Affairs would have taken the lead in this and money would have been allocated to it. But it was all withdrawn and brought back to the centre. If there are no ill intentions, why would it be from the centre here - the Attorney General’s office? We have a resident minister, the Minister of State for Teso Affairs, who should have led the verification exercise, and confirmed to them, and thereafter the money would be released after knowing who they were paying, other than sending people from Kampala who go to make allowances in hotels, come back but do nothing. Mr Speaker, even when they talked about compensation, how do you give someone who lost their property over 30 years ago just one cow? Couldn’t they work out a formula where they would look at every family in the area and give them something, then start from there, other than deceiving us that they are compensating? We are tired of this because it is a way of stealing money. Thank you. (Applause)

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. I thank the committee for the report. I have stood to back the position of the committee that the Government needs to come up with a comprehensive compensation policy. When you look at how the Government is operating - just as Hon. Mudimi had noticed - others have been compensated because they went to court, yet the statement from the Attorney-General says that some are supposed to wait for a Cabinet memo. What about others? When we talk about the loss of property to war, West Nile suffered the most. Actually, in 1980, during the liberation war, when they were chasing Idi Amin, the whole of West Nile was raised to dust. Some people ran to South Sudan, while others ran to Congo. That was in 1979, but the actual war was around 1980. In the 1990s, people started coming back, and that is when the West Nile Bank Front was also formed. People were raided. I wish Gen. Katumba Wamala was here. We are talking about the loss of cows; people lost a lot of cows. There was a situation where the rebels had looted a lot of cows, gathered in a place called Nyori-cheku, and were celebrating. By then, Gen. Katumba Wamala was a colonel and he was overseeing the operations. A number of them were killed. Hence, a lot of cows were lost. Members have just talked about the loss of property. Indeed, during the Kony war, whereas we had the West Nile Bank Front at home in West Nile, the distance from Pakwach to Karuma was a death trap. If you were travelling from Kampala, it was not until you had crossed Pakwach that you would say, “Thank you, God”. When you were coming from West Nile, it was not until you reached Karuma that you would say, “Thank you, God”. People lost a lot of property. Mr Speaker, you were here in the 10 th Parliament. The list of people who lost lorries and buses, including the Nile Coach Buses and others, was presented here. The Government had agreed to compensate all these people, but along the way, this has been swept under the rug. We are talking about Acholi, Lango, and Teso, which is okay. I think the Government should set minimum service delivery standards so that when we offer services, everybody is on board. Some Members have also talked about tobacco here. In the 10 th Parliament, when they talked about compensation for tobacco - because all the West Nilers who were tobacco farmers and the people in Bunyoro lost their tobacco to masterminds. The compensation had taken root for the two groups of people. When it came to compensation, Bunyoro was considered but the people of West Nile were abandoned and we are still struggling. Though, right now, we are saying the money is there. As the Government, I think we should set a standard of service delivery. There are very many cases where items are distributed, but when you go on the ground and look at where these items have gone, you realise that most of them end up in the constituencies of ministers, not Members of Parliament. Personally, I have stood to support the position of the committee that when it comes to service delivery, we should have minimum service standards. That must - (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. I want to build on Hon. Mujungu’s submission. Earlier, Hon. Fox Odoi had talked of policy and Hon. Mujungu has brought it out – the 2009 policy. He has also raised the issue of cut-offs. In 1979, Mbarara was razed to the ground. Masaka, which is Masaka City now – (Interjections) - Mr Speaker, I beg for your protection. Masaka town was razed to the ground and so was Mbarara town. During the war of 1979, the Western Axis led by His Excellency, Gen. Yoweri Museveni, and then the Axis through Mutukula led by Gen. Oyite-Ojok - Saba Saba razed down those two towns. When you go to - because Kasese was not being talked about as people who suffered, the good thing is it has now been brought out very well by Hon. Mujungu. In 1979, West Nile suffered during the liberation. Then in 1980, during the general elections, West Nile was invaded by the Government forces, and the people were chased to Congo. All the MPs from the UPC political party came unopposed because there were no people to vote; the West Nile area had been razed down. Therefore, when we talk about cut-off points, let us go to Independence and then verify what level of damage was done in each area. Even in Kampala here, some of the buildings were flattened and the owners have not been talked about. I beg that the Attorney-General goes back - we have a cut-off point and then see who lost what during these various wars since Independence.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the minister for the report and mine is a very specific clarification. The Attorney-General knows very well that three years back, he got a list of people who were recommended by the President to be compensated. They were 20 people but only one person was compensated. These are Muslims who lost their properties and cows during the 1979 war. Last year, we got a report from his office. People were invited to Kampala, all the necessary arrangements were put in place, verification was done, and a report was submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office for those people to be compensated. Most of those people have died. Even for those who had died, lists of estate administrators were requested and submitted. Accounts were submitted. Everything was done. However, up to now, they have never got any compensation. When you read this report, you realise that he is talking about the regions he has mentioned. Should we tell these people that they are not going to be compensated? What should we tell them? We need clarification from your office. Communication is very important. When we go back, they ask us. They think we are not following this matter up. Attorney-General, please, I have been asking you very many times and visited the Prime Minister’s Office numerous times too. I really request you to give us clear communication. If possible, put it in writing because you know the people you have been dealing with. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. This House, as the Legislature, is in many respects the gatekeeper of our country. When there are critical matters of concern out there, they can be discussed on talk shows, and so on. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 5TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.10 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15758 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT indicate that local leaders are supportive, but we acknowledge the need to involve them more. The commission has established a system for receiving and handling complaints arising out of this exercise. This includes establishment of a query/complaints desk at the Electoral Commission headquarters that receives and responds to complaints and emerging issues. Mr Speaker, concerning the adequacy of kits allocated for the exercise, the commission is conducting the exercise using kits provided by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA). The total number of kits deployed for this exercise is 2,703 kits. Our need was 5,000 kits. The distribution has been made, based on the subcounties, except for Kampala Capital City, Wakiso, and Mukono districts, which have been allocated additional kits per parish or ward. Our update officials and supervisors are providing a schedule on the rotation and movement of kits, and informing the people of when and where the kits will be on a particular day, to ensure coverage of the target population. The update teams are supported by technical teams or trouble-shooters that respond to machine issues as and when they arise. Mr Speaker, it is true that some technical problems (faulty machines) have been reported in some stations. The equipment being used was first procured for the 2014/2015 mass enrolment registration exercise under the National Security Information System (NSIS) Project, the predecessor to NIRA. This explains the reported cases of breakdowns. Our teams have been on standby to respond to any reported malfunctions. Mr Speaker, on the issue of the requirement for a recommendation from the Gombolola Internal Security Officer (GISO) and the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), we wish to guide that this applies to first-time applicants and is based on the need to verify citizenship. Please note that only verified citizens qualify to be on the voter register and the agency responsible for ascertaining citizenship is NIRA. The Electoral Commission engaged the leadership of Uganda Police and the sister security agencies to facilitate the new applicants with such letters to complete their applications. Mr Speaker, in conclusion, the Electoral Commission is cognisant of the challenges that have been identified in these first days of the exercise but we are confident that with the mechanisms put in place to address them and with the heightened awareness created by our teams that are based at the parish level, who are mobilising the communities on the operational plans regarding venues, time and requirements for completing the exercise; the time allocated will enable Ugandans to register and update their particulars. The commission appeals to all stakeholders, including the honourable members of Parliament to support the mobilisation and call on their constituents to participate in the exercise. The registration centres in the parishes are working daily during this update exercise, from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., including weekends. I beg to submit.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. My concern is on the Parish Internal Security Officers (PISOs). In areas where we have a very high population like Kampala, a parish has around 20,000 residents, but the PISOs are nowhere to be seen. The phones of the PISOs, who would be located at the station where the operation is

15762 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT taking place, are off; they are nowhere to be seen and they are not known because these are not offices. They are supposed to give security intelligence, not offices that are known to everybody. Therefore, this is work that should be done by Local Councils (LCs), not the PISOs, because they do not have a particular location to be found. Mr Speaker, my second concern is Kampala, which has a high population; a parish of 20,000 residents. That is just one parish equivalent to a subcounty or even equivalent to some of your districts and constituencies. We cannot have one machine in operation. It is unfair and it cannot accommodate all the residents. Therefore, this is something that you need to revise so that at least in every two or three zones, we have a machine in operation for our people to get to vote. Thank you.

15770 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT all over, and you can hear that it is on both the NRM, and the Opposition sides. People are saying that their voters are asking for money to get recommendations. This is totally unacceptable, and it has got to be nipped in the bud. Mr Speaker, the process has not commenced in many places, including here in Kampala where the Electoral Commission is headquartered. I am thinking about deep rural places in Abim, Bupadhengo, Moyo, Kabale, and so forth. It is the worst of situations. The Electoral Commission told us that Kampala was given a bit of special attention and that more kits were distributed here, which is also not true. Mr Speaker, I was given information by one of my colleagues, Hon. Susan Mugabi from Buvuma. In most of these islands, and by the way, not just islands, there is no electricity, so these kits cannot operate. There is no connectivity at all. They are meant to print many forms, but they do not even have where to print them from. However, the Electoral Commission says that the process is moving on smoothly. No, that is not true. Mr Speaker, it is important that the Government concedes that there is a need for more time for this exercise because we all want it. It is good for all of us and our democracy. Let us increase the number of days because there have been glitches up to date, and in many places, the exercise has not commenced. We need more time for this process to be a free and fair one. Mr Speaker, for an election to be free and fair, it is not just on the D-Day. It begins with a process. When people feel like they are being disenfranchised - the young people, you are locking them out because of all these different quandaries - that is not a free and fair election. Can we increase the time? Mr Speaker, I do not know what your guidance is going to be, but I would like to move a motion without notice under Rule 59 of our Rules of Procedure that Parliament urges the Government to extend the duration of the update of the voter registration process by two months. It is important, and the Government can suggest whichever period. What is important is the need to extend this process - (Interjections)- So far, several days have passed, but the process has not commenced in many places. On 10 th February, the Electoral Commission is looking forward to announcing that they have stopped the exercise, yet the kits will not have reached some places. The exercise will not have been carried out. I hope that the Government will find it relevant to extend this process without Parliament having to urge it and push it around. Find it important to extend this exercise and then sort out the sticky issues. Otherwise, you may extend the time but then the sticky issues and complaints remain apparent. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Speaker, the objectives were: 1. To visit Col (Rtd) Dr Kiiza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya to establish their detention conditions. 2. To assess the Human Rights conditions of Luzira Maximum Security Prison. Methodology The committee; i) Conducted a tour of Luzira Maximum Security Prison. ii) Held a meeting with the Regional Prisons Commander for Kampala Extra and the officers in charge of Luzira Maximum Security Prison. iii) Interacted with Col (Rtd) Dr Kiiza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya. iv) Held meetings with the Attorney-General and Uganda Prisons Service. v) Received written submissions from Uganda Human Rights Commission. vi) Reviewed the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. Findings This section of the report presents the findings of the committee through the aforementioned methodology. 4.1 Visit to Luzira Maximum Security Prison to assess the physical conditions of the prison The committee visited the prison and interacted with the prisoners, who raised the following issues. 4.1.1 Dr Kiiza Besigye’s issues in prison Col (Rtd) Dr Kiiza Besigye informed the committee that he feels safer in Luzira prison compared to other detention facilities. He commended the prison authorities for their professionalism and for ensuring that inmates’ rights are upheld and protected. He also added that the prison doctors visit him daily and he is allowed to see his personal doctor whenever the need arises. Dr Kiiza Besigye noted that he has access to adequate food, with three authorised suppliers providing his needs. Similarly, his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale, has three authorised suppliers providing his food. They cook their own meals, for security reasons. It should be noted that whereas the Uganda Prison Service provides three meals a day for other prisoners, Dr Kiiza Besigye informed the committee that he refused to eat the food provided by the prison, for fear of being poisoned. He acknowledged significant improvements in prison conditions over the years. Systems have been computerised, and the facility is better maintained than it used to be. He further confirmed that there had been a remarkable improvement between 2016 and the present day, with the prison currently fitted with running water, waterborne toilets, the abolition

Mr Speaker, I was just seated, thinking and reflecting on those people who are in prison, in the police cells, and un-gazetted places - it reminded me of the 1988 incident when, as a young man aged 18 years old, was arrested by the NRA, undressed, locked up in a room of over 20 people, naked, women and men, and women were raped in front of us. I spent three days without tasting any food. The bucket system was being used. The porridge was being brought in buckets and you all had to dip your hands into it, no matter whether you had washed your hands or not yet we had been urinating in the same place. When I reflect on that, it brings pain to one’s heart. It is not until possibly you have been there that you will get to know the pain one can go through. At that age, I went through that for three weeks. When we are speaking about this issue of congestion, it perturbs me and I think it is not only limited to the prisons but even the police cells. So, I want to call upon the Committee on Human Rights to do some impromptu visits to the police cells within Kampala. On 29 December 2024, I got the news that one of the people from Kasilo had been arrested and brought to Kyaliwajjala Police Station and had been there for five days. I looked at them - there were seven of them in a cage like the way you see chicken in Nakawa Market. I have a photo here of those people. They could only stand and did not have where to squat, but they had to kneel on one another in order to sleep. I want to call on the Committee on Human Rights to visit these places to know how people are suffering yet they are being held on just petty issues. I was reflecting on how one can feed on beans and posho for 28 years. Mr Speaker, when you asked about when Hon. Kabuye was born, I just said, “Can you imagine someone going without conjugal rights since the time Hon. Kabuye was born?” Hon. Kabuye has even got children. How many of you can last for all that? That is the pain - (Laughter) - we can take it to different dimensions to make you feel - maybe that is the language you need to get and get to feel - you do not even know for what case someone has spent all those years. I wish the Attorney- General was still here, I would have asked him whether - (Member timed out.)

Mr Speaker, the voters’ verification exercise is very important. We have the Deputy Attorney- General. Since this matter is very urgent, we IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 4TH SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.19 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15705 THE E L E V E N TH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY , 23 JANUARY 2025 12. Vote 006 – Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Shs 488.205 million. The committee observes that Shs 488.205 million was required by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for contributions to the Commonwealth Secretariat. This was to ensure Uganda honours its commitments to the Commonwealth Secretariat and enable Uganda’s effective participation in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which took place in Apia, Samoa from 21 to 26 October 2024. The committee recommends approval of Shs 488.205 million to Vote 006 - Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 13. Vote 008 - Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development: Shs 6.311 billion The committee observed that Shs 6.311 billion was required by the minister for Operational Shortfalls for Uganda Telecom Limited (UTEL) which is a requirement for the administrator to release the land titles to facilitate the financial closure of UTEL investor. The Committee recommends approval of Shs 6.311 billion to Vote 008 - Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. 14. Vote 016 - Ministry of Works and Transport: Shs 50 billion The committee of the Shs 50 billion was required by the ministry for the completion of rehabilitation of the Tororo - Gulu Railway Line Project (Meter Gauge Railway). The committee recommends approval of Shs 50 billion to Vote 016 - Ministry of Works and Transport. 15. Vote 018 - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development: Shs 4.882 billion. Committee observations: i) Shs 3.038 billion is required to meet the shortfalls for hosting the Ateker Reunion festival, which took place in Soroti. The funds were to cater for accommodation, and the attendant facilitation of the VVIPs invited to the festival; ii) Shs 1.292 billion is required to meet statutory expenditure and operational expenses, expenditures for subventions under the ministry, such as Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE), Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), Uganda Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP) operations of the National Women’s Council; iii) Shs 551.601 million is required for contribution to the Commonwealth Youth Programme. This was to ensure Uganda’s commitment to the programme and enable effective participation in the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM), which was held in Apia, Samoa, in October 2024. The committee recommends approval of Shs 4.882 billion to Vote 018 - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. 16. Vote 020 - Ministry of ICT and National Guidance: Shs 11.33 billion. The committee observes that Shs 11.33 billion is required in order to facilitate wage requirements and operational shortfalls for Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC). UBC was not provided funds in the budget for the Financial Year 2024/2025 for these wage requirements and operational shortfalls. The committee recommends approval of Shs 11.33 billion to Vote 020 - Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, as subvention to UBC. 17. Vote 023 - Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs: Shs 7.36 billion. The committee observed that Shs 7.36 billion is required to facilitate the operations of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Affairs GKMA Urban Development Project with detailed designs for roads and markets and

15706 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME the coordination of the metropolitan fiscal planning in GKMA. The committee recommends approval of this money to Vote 023 - Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs. 18. Vote 106 - Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC): Shs 10.4 billion. The committee observed that Shs 10.4 billion is required for operational shortfalls such as NSSF and contractual allowances, fixed costs, complaints management, research and civic education. The committee recommends approval of Shs 10.4 billion to Vote 106 - Uganda Human Rights Commission. 19. Vote 107 - Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC): Shs 2 billion. The committee observes that Shs 2 billion is required for shortfalls in the counterpart funding for Uganda country coordinating mechanism for the Global Fund (UCCM) for awareness creation activities. The committee recommends approval of Shs 2 billion to Vote 107 - Uganda AIDS Commission. 20. Vote 130 - Treasury Operations: Shs 53.119 billion. The committee observes that Shs 53.119 billion is required for promissory note obligations on completion of Lubowa Hospital. The committee recommends approval of Shs 53.11 billion to Vote 130 - Treasury Operations Lubowa Hospital. 21. Vote 131 - Office of the Auditor-General (OAG): Shs 3.245 billion. The committee observes that Shs 3.245 billion is required for post-retirement benefits for the former Auditor-General. The committee recommends approval of Shs 3.245 billion to Vote 131 - Officer of the Auditor-General as retirement benefits for the former Auditor-General. 22. Vote 146 - Public Service Commission (PSC): Shs 4.4 billion. The committee observes that Shs 4.4 billion is required for the implementation of Rationalisation of Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX). The committee recommends approval of Shs 4.4 billion to Vote 146 - Public Service Commission. 23. Vote 158 - Internal Security Organisation: Shs 19.616 billion. The committee observed that Shs 19.616 billion is required to cater for outstanding domestic arrears over three financial years from Financial Year 2021/2022 to date. The committee recommends approval of Shs 19.616 billion to Vote 158 - Internal Security Organisation. 24. Vote 301 - Makerere University: Shs 8.856 billion. The committee observes that Shs 8.856 billion is required to cater for living out allowances for government-sponsored students. The committee recommends approval of Shs 8.856 billion to Vote 301 - Makerere University to pay living out allowances for government- sponsored students. 25. Vote 515 - Uganda Embassy in Japan, Tokyo: Shs 800 million. The committee observes that Shs 800 million is required for rent shortfalls. The Embassy shifted to a better premise following a directive by the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, but the rent requirement was higher by Shs 800 million. [Mr Achia] SUPPLEMENTARY SCHEDULE NO.1 FOR FY 2024/2025

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for giving me way. Rt Hon. Prime Minister Kampala-Jinja Expressway is one of the most bankable projects that Uganda has. For over eight years, the PAPs have not been paid, despite the fact that during the debate on the budget, the Minister of Works and Transport, through the Attorney-General, told this Parliament that all the money for compensation of the PAPs was available. As we speak, the PAPs cannot do renovation of their structures, they cannot construct toilets and, therefore, they are using flying toilets which may result in a disease outbreak. We are worried about the circumstances in which our PAPs live. When are you - (Member timed out.)

Honourable minister, when are you paying the Project- Affected Persons for Kampala-Jinja Expressway?

Honourable member that is not how you conclude a submission in a session you are not chairing. To begin with, that is not a procedural matter. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 3RD SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.28 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on the increased deaths as a result of high spread of Hepatitis C in the Adjumani District. We have challenges associated with early testing because there are no have the reagents. The samples are brought to Kampala and each sample costs Shs 250,000. The second challenge is about getting the treatment. A dose costs between Shs 1.8 million and 2 million. Therefore, many people are dying because they cannot afford these services. My prayers are: 1. Let the reagents be taken to the district because this disease is manageable; it can be treated. 2. Let us have the medicines at the hospital so that people can be treated. Thank you.

Thank you. Recently, we signed a contract with Tecnovia Company to tarmac a road from Lusalira- Kasambya-Nkonge-Sembabule, where Kabamba is and we are very grateful for that, as the people of Mubende. (Applause) As we talk now - I know most of you will be coming to Mubende – you will see the road from Mityana up to Kasambya is under reconstruction by Energo Company Limited. (Applause) The road from Mubende, Kakumiro up to Hoima was tarmacked by the NRM Government. You can cross from Gulu, go to Masindi, go to Hoima, and come up to Mubende without passing through Kampala. The Government is now going to work on a road that I have just mentioned. So, you will be able to connect from all parts of the country through Mubende without driving on a murram road. That is a contribution by the National Resistance Movement. Lastly, Mr Speaker, I want to join the minister and the Government in inviting you to Mubende on Sunday, the 26 th of January. Come and sleep there so that our hotels can get visitors. Come and eat our food - (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I join in thanking the minister for the report and confirming that it is important we celebrate the 39 years of NRM in power. In West Nile, by 1986, Arua Town had been reduced into ruins. Similarly, Koboko Town had been totally destroyed. We could not access Kampala. For us to come to Kampala, it took a week or two. When we are marking 39 years of peace and stability, West Nile stands with Uganda to celebrate. (Applause) Two, the education policies the NRM Government has brought; granting access to education universally for primary, secondary, and the public university policies that have created 11 public universities in this country. We now have 49 universities in Uganda that anybody can access. We can say education policies have been improved by the NRM Government, and it is proper to celebrate 39 years. In the health sector, we have health centres II and III. We also have health centres IV which has been elevated from health centres III and many Ugandans access services from them. For us as West Nile, we have Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital in addition to Arua Regional Referral Hospital; for this, we can say “Thank you.” Let us celebrate. STATEMENT

15673 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 22 JANUARY 2025 We also have improvements in the road infrastructure, although we are not satisfied. There were governments here – For instance, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) Government was in power twice; it did not tarmac the road from Karuma-Arua to Koboko. It was later tarmacked by the NRM government. The same UPC Government that was in power twice did not connect West Nile to the national grid. We were connected to national grid just the other day. Therefore, when we are celebrating 39 years in power, we have a right to celebrate. However, we have the following concerns; I disagree with the minister on the issue of a smooth ride from Kampala to Koboko because between Olwiyo and Pakwach, the road is depleted; Nebbi and Arua, the road is depleted. These roads were done 200-

That is very right. Honourable colleagues, I am going to give you two minutes each so that we can pick – Hon. Judith Alyek and Hon. Wandwasi. I will pick Hon. Najjuma, Hon. Ssewanyana, and the Mukono and Kampala Members. I am going to give as many of you as possible, but let us be quick so that we accommodate many Members.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. It is good we are discussing this. Generally speaking, we also need a national law. Probably this was decentralised – the abattoir – to the cities, districts, and municipalities, but they have to have by-laws. Accordingly, some districts, like Kampala City, have very good bylaws. I do not know if we can interest all the cities and the districts to borrow from them - or the Solicitor-General could take responsibility for all the local governments to take the bylaws of Kampala city for abattoirs. I have not heard the name of Gulu City, but it has, I think, the worst abattoir. The worst. If you go there, you will completely say no to meat but we do not talk about it so that those who can eat it. However, it is also unfair to us-

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the chairperson and the committee for a very elaborate report about the management of abattoirs, especially on health. Mr Speaker, we have a very big problem which has not been mentioned in the report; the problem is about management issues in these abattoirs, and specifically, in the city here. We have had these problems for such a long time. It is because of these management issues that some problems like the ones mentioned in the committee report that come from- because nobody knows whose responsibility it is, especially on waste management and the abattoirs in the city. Kampala Capital City Authority has been trying to make by-laws, to manage the abattoirs around the city, but such ordinances which have been passed by the city authority have been ignored and not enforced by the city management because the politicians have been guiding so. Therefore, such problems have led to issues of health management, but again, we have to thank the current managers of these abattoirs, at least they have tried. These people have not been getting resources and enough training, as mentioned by the report. However, somehow, people have been getting very good meat, and the people have not been dying because of bad meat from abattoirs. At least we must thank them as we yearn for improvement, Mr Speaker. Thank you, sir.

15686 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT Richard Wanda, the Chairman of Bugisu Parliamentary Forum - they hosted me for two days in Mbale and we did great work, where I went beyond my duty as a Deputy Speaker and engaged the proprietors of Mbale Industrial Park. We had a lot of problems and by the time we left, we had solved like 90 per cent. (Applause) We found that the workers were using nearly Shs 4,000 every day on transport from their homes to the park and back, yet these people could construct a small bridge and gate that would connect them by only 400 metres to the city. It had been a bone of contention, so we managed to engage with the proprietor and like he has said, it has now been constructed. I received many messages from the young people in Mbale. (Applause) They also wanted a showroom because the products are manufactured in Mbale, but the people come to buy them in Kampala. Mr Zhang has briefed me that he is going to put up - I think they have already started; it is under construction. He is going to put up a showroom in Mbale for all products, so that the community can benefit. The other issue was that the youth wanted to have a workshop. Let us say you have brought all these investors, but as young people who have our own small businesses, we do not have anyone to help us. When we engaged with him, he agreed to build a workshop for them on one acre, equip it for free and they use it. Also the facilitation – (Hon. Masaba rose_) - Yes?

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the wonderful work that you did there. Listening to the chairman read the report, I kept wondering whether we have abattoirs in Uganda or we just have slaughterhouses or slaughter slabs. It is a big problem. I would like to hear from the chairman and the committee following Dr. Isamat and Hon. Nyakikongoro’s issues about the stamps. I am wondering because I have not heard where they disposed of the carcass. If you ever found out, how many carcasses were disposed of in Kampala or Mbarara in a year? Definitely, they should have been able to detect some animals with problems or which were sick. Do you have that record? Two, I do not know of any slaughterhouse in Uganda that has slaughter machines because you always see people fighting with animals. They tie them, put them down and slaughter them. Do we have slaughter machines in any of these abattoirs here? (Laughter) I also want to find out whether you ever visited - because we are trying to benchmark. The only place could maybe be Quality Cuts. I do not know whether you visited Quality Cuts here to find out whether there is anything to learn from them or if it is just a name. Talking about public health, the other issue is on the places where they sell this meat, just within Kampala here. Mr Speaker, when you hosted the Speakers’ conference here, we took a team to the Equator crossing. As we were getting back, because of the jam in Kyengera, we decided to use Kasanje Road to get to Entebbe Road via Nakawuka. My Lord! They were shocked at the way our meat is being

Then you update us on what action you are taking. Next item and thank you Hon. Nakimwero for raising this critical issue. MOTION FOR RESOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT TO APPROVE THE ADDENDUM TO THE PROPOSAL TO BORROW UP TO SPECIAL DRAWING RIGHTS (SDR) 374.8 MILLION (EQUIVALENT TO $518 MILLION) AND RECEIVE A GRANT OF SPECIAL DRAWING RIGHTS (SDR) $34 MILLION (EQUIVALENT TO $48 MILLION) FROM THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION OF THE WORLD BANK GROUP AND BORROW UP TO EURO 40 MILLION (EQUIVALENT TO $42.66 MILLION) FROM AGENCE FRANÇAISE DE DÉVELOPPEMENT (AFD) TO FINANCE THE GREATER KAMPALA METROPOLITAN AREA URBAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

Thank you, Mr Speaker. In line with Article 159 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Sections 36 and 39 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 and Rule 155 of the Parliamentary Rules of Procedure, I beg to move a motion for a resolution of Parliament to approve the addendum to Government to borrow up to special drawing rights $374.8 million, (equivalent of $518 million) and receive a grant of Special Drawing Rights (SDR) 34.8 million (equivalent to $48 million) from the International Development Association of the World Bank Group, and borrow up to Euro 40 million (equivalent of $42.66 million) from AFD to finance the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme. I beg to move.

Is the motion seconded? Afande Nekesa, Afande Alanyo, Minister for water, Member for Kampala, Engineer Balimwezo, Hon. Naluyima Ethel, honourable member for Mukono, Makindye Hon. Ssewanyana, I am trying to see if there are Members of Parliament (MPs) from Kampala who are not seconding it. Hon. Haji Siraji, Hon. Tibasimwa, Minister for local government, Minister of State for Luweero, Labour Youth, nearly the whole House. Honourable Minister, do you want to give a summary justifying your motion?

Mr Speaker, the summary of the project is as follows: The objectives and the benefits of the project. 1. The programme design is intended to strengthen the capacity of the Ministry of Kampala City and Metropolitan Affairs, KCCA, and eight greater Kampala metropolitan area local governments to deliver coordinated and programmatic infrastructure and services to make Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) an engine of transformation and driver of Uganda’s economy. 2. The programme will contribute to the National Development Plan IV and the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Economic Development Strategy of 2022/2030 that provides a framework for strategic and prioritised engagements to address identified challenges in the GKMA. Specifically, the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area strategy highlights objectives: i) Competitive economic infrastructure, ii) Conservation and protection of the environment assets, iii) Business support to the informal sector, iv) Unique centre for tourism and v) Effective city and local government service delivery to which the programme is aligned . Cost and financing The cost is Euros 40 million, an equivalent of $42.66 million, as I mentioned earlier. The maturity period is 25 years, including a grace period of seven years. The interest rate is variable with six months Euribor -0.24 per cent as at 24 September 2024. This runs for the next eight months. The appraisal fee is calculated at 0.5 per cent of the total amount of the facility. Mr Speaker, with this justification, I presented the same loan to the Committee on National Economy. I am aware they have done an analysis of their own and they can support me in justifying this motion further. I submit.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I beg to lay the report of the Committee on National Economy on the addendum to the proposal to borrow up to Special Drawing Rights ( SDR ) 374.8 million (equivalent to $518 million) and receive a grant of Special Drawing Rights ( SDR ) 34.8 million (equivalent to $48 million) from the International Development Association of the World Bank Group and borrow up to Euro 40 million (equivalent to $42.66 million) from The Agence Française de Développement( AFD ) to finance the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP). Mr Speaker, I beg to lay the report and minutes of the committee while processing the loan. In the Plenary Sitting held on 19 December 2024, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development presented to Parliament an Addendum to the proposal by the Government to borrow up to Special Drawing Rights that I have already mentioned. This was referred to the Committee on National Economy. The committee held a meeting and received submissions from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the Ministry of Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs. As you know, on 2 May 2024, Parliament approved this borrowing. The financing for this project was approved by AFD Board on 14 December 2022 and the Government of Uganda was given up to 13 August 2023 to sign the financing. According to the prevailing finance market rates, the financing terms and conditions of AFD were valid for eight months from the date of the board approval, and thereafter, revised every six months. Based on this, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development was not able to sign the financing with AFD within the eight months due to the protracted negotiations on the contentious clauses in the draft financing agreement, which have now been resolved. In the communication dated 30 July 2024, AFD informed the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development of the new interest rate of six months Euribor - 0.24, which is valid until 22 March 2025. Mr Speaker, I am not going through the financing terms of the loan since the minister has already stated it. The status of the implementation Following the approval of the loan last year, the project is under implementation, and accordingly, there is steady progress in the civil works in all the nine entities that are under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. By the end of the first quarter of this financial year, Kira Municipality and Mukono Municipality had started implementation works of the flagship projects with a total length of 29.74 kilometres as per the table above. The additional road projects were advertised as at the end of September 2024. The programme had advertised 13 lots of road projects, which total up to around 81.25 kilometres from the six entities, namely: Wakiso Local Government, Mpigi District Local Government, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Makindye- Ssabagabo Municipality, Nansana and Entebbe Municipality. These entities were grouped into three clusters based on the proximity and experience to handle the infrastructure projects. The details of these clusters are indicated in the table. The committee, during the interaction with the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and [The Deputy Speaker] MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

15691 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 22 JANUARY 2025 Metropolitan Affairs, informed the committee that the consultancy services for the civil works and environmental and social safeguards supervision to these projects had already been advertised and put in place. The committee observations The committee made an observation based on the market. The committee noted that the interest rates of most multinational lenders keep fluctuating. It further notes that a lot of time in the loan approval process is lost before it comes to Parliament as required by law. Further delays occur during negotiations between the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the lender. The committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should always fast-track the loan acquisition process to avoid the ever-changing interest rates. Inconvenience in the city The committee notes that the ongoing works in and around Kampala have increased inconvenience in terms of heavy traffic, especially during the rush hours and dust to both road users and roadside businesses. The Ministry for Kampala acknowledges the inconvenience and requests the general public to bear with them since Kampala City is now a construction site. The committee urges the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs to appeal to the contractors to ensure application of water during the day to limit dust, maximise the use of night time and weekend schedules in order to minimise inconveniences while maintaining timely delivery of the project. In conclusion, Mr Speaker, following the justification for the revision of the interest rate, the committee recommends that $ 518 million from the International Development Association of the World Bank and 40 million Euros equivalent to Shs 42.66 million from the Agence Française de Développement( AFD ) to finance the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development programme at a revised interest rate of six-months Euribor -0.24 be approved by this august House. I beg to move.

Mr Speaker, I know you have said that this is straightforward- it is more of a caution. I am a Member of Parliament from Kampala, which should excite me, but I would be more interested in seeing the Government having its hands on these projects. We have a lot of project delays. Many times- I will give an example; towards the end of 2023, as I was wrapping up my tour of duty as the Chairperson Committee on Public Accounts (Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises), I tabled a report here on behalf of COSASE when we interrogated the workers of KCCA. One of our findings was inflating the costs of construction per kilometre. That is a report that we unanimously adopted. Therefore, all of these things concern me. Yes, we can get excited; we are getting this money to construct these roads. However, regarding the scope, timeliness, and cost of these roads, I am hoping that we can have a good appraisal at the end of the day and that we shall be ticking all those boxes as a caution.

Thank you. The Chairperson Committee on National Economy, I am going to assign you with your team to go and look at the progress of these projects because I have an issue, they have created the picture as if we are not funding Kampala. In 2018 - Hon. Musasizi, I do not remember, but I think it is 2018. I do not know whom I had on the Committee on National Economy in the 10 th Parliament. We passed a loan from the African Development Bank (ADB), which was around $215 million for Kampala. I think the procurement was just concluded recently- you

Thank you. I am raising this because I remember at that time, we moved around the entire Kampala up to Lungujja, Munyonyo, Port bell, and Ntinda. First, look at that over $200 million. This is over $600 million. Therefore, that is why at the burial of the mother of the acting head of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), I told the Lord Mayor that we have given you close to Shs 3 trillion since 2018. The problem is what the LOP has said, the implementation. If you go and check on the implementation of the loan of 2018 when we are being bastardised every day that we have not given money to Kampala you feel a lot of pain. I hope the new leadership in Kampala looks at this issue. The fight for tenders has to stop. That business of tenderpreneurs coming and fighting for how long and the blocking tenders going everywhere has to stop, and they start implementing. We cannot have over Shs 3 trillion being given and we are trashed on the road that Members of Parliament are not appropriating money for infrastructure in Kampala. Some of us feel pain. I agree with LOP. The Committee on National Economy, kindly go to the field; number one, because I know these other accountability committees are going to be busy now - look at the physical progress of the work done. Those that have not finished procurement, you tell us and they answer questions as to why they cannot complete performance since 2018, with all this money. We wash our hands clean before the public. Members of Parliament from Kampala, you are being accused as if you have not lobbied for Kampala, yet you have done your part. The government is accused. This needs to stop. I now put the question that the motion to approve the addendum to the proposal to borrow up Special Drawing Rights (SDR) 374.8 million, equivalent to $518 million and receive a grant of Special Drawing Rights (SDR) 34.8 million, equivalent to $48 million from the International Development Association of the World Bank Group and borrow up to Euro 40 million equivalent the $42.66 million from the Agence Française de Développement( AFD ) to finance the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP) be adopted. (Question put and agreed to.) Motion adopted.

'Contents 1 INTRODUCTION 2 TERMS OF REFERENCE: 3 METHODOLOGY 4 STANDARDS OF AN ABAT'TOIR/SLAUGHTER HOUSES..,.,. 5 GENERAL CATEGORIZATION OF ABATTOIRS/SLAUGHTER HOUSES IS AS FOLLOWS: 4 5 5 6 5.1 Categorization of Abattoirs/Slaughter houses according to size: .... g 5.2 Standard requirements of an abattoir/slaughter house Error! 6.1 Ceutral and Western Uganda Error! Bookmark not defined. 8 6.3 Masaka Pork Slaughter Housc: The pork Master Ricks 10 6.4 Mbarara City 1l 6.5 Mbarara City Modern Abatto 11 6.6 Kakoba Slaughter House.......,... .... ........1I 6.7 Fort Portal Ci 12 6.8 Kibimba City Council Abattoir ..............12 6.9 Kitumba Slaughter House........... 6,1O Hoima city.............. 6. 11 Masindi District 6.14 IgangaMunicipality l5 6.15 Mbale City ......................16 6.16 Soroti City Council ........tT 6.17 Lira City t2 1a I4 17 6.18 Kampala Capital City.............. 6.18.1 city /KCCA Abattoir ..................... t8 6.19 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS ON THE STATUS OF ABATTOIRS:....20 6. 19.1 Functionality and suitability of the Infrastructure: ..............20 2 Nf-3

6,L9,2 Functionality of Utilities ..............23 6,19.3 Functionality of the waste management and disposal 5.2O Availability of incinerators and records 24 25 26 27 29 30 6.21 Lagoons Processes. 6,22 Environmental concern 6.23 Availability and competences of the human resources 6.24 Availability and compliance to the I provisions. egal and regulatory List of Tables Table l: Distribution of Slaughter Facilities in the country 7 6.26 The Animals (Prevention of Cruelty) Act, Cap. 49 6.27 Cattle Traders Act, Cap. 52 32 6.2A Veterinary Technical Manual for Animal Movement Control in Uganda (2O19f: ......33 6.29 Public Health (Meatf Rules -Statutory Instrument ZB I-1g .. . , . . .. 33 6.30 Traceability 5.31 To establish the quality a.ssurance processes 9 Table 6: Summary of Kampala City abattoirs by 1ocation 1B List of Figures Figure 1:The Structure of Jinja Slaughter house t5 Figure 2: Goat killed and eaten by a stray dog............... ........... 16 Figure 3: Meat Processing in a dirty space 16 Figure 4: Holding area of Mbale City Abattoir ......I2 3 w

2 TERMSOFREFERENCE: The General objective of the oversight was to assess the general status of abattoirs/ slaughter houses in the country. The Specifrc Objectives included: i. To assess the functionality and suitability of the facilities, infrastructure. ii. To establish functionality of utilities (water, electricity, sanitary facilities). iii. To establish the functionality of the waste management and disposal processes; level of sanitation and hygiene, waste disposal and management. iv. To assess the availability and competences of the human resources. v. To determine the availability and compliance to the legal and regulatory provisions. vi. To establish the quality assurance processes followed by abattoirs 3 METHODOLOGY: In execution of the Instruction, the Committee; a! Constituted regional teams. b! Developed a structured observation checklist that was used to obtain information about key parameters in the selected abattoirs/ slaughter houses. cl Conducted oversight visits to slaughter facilities in selected districts and cities that included; Mukono, Jinja, Iganga, Mbale, Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Mbarara, Masaka, Fort portal, Hoima, Masindi and Kampala. dl held meetings with stakeholders such as District, Municipal and City Veterinary Officers, facility owners, traders and workers to obtain detailed information about the operations of the slaughter facilities. el Held meetings at Parliament with: i. Ministry of Water and Environment ii. Ministry of Health Rg

iii. iv. v. vi. vii. Ministry of Local Government Ministry of Lands, Housing And Urban Development Ministry for Kampala Capital and Metropolitan Affairs Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) 4 STANDARDS OF AN ABATTOIR/SLAUGHTER HOUSES For the purposes of this report abattoir and slaughter house shall be used interchangeably. slaughter houses are facilities where animals are slaughtered for meat. Prior to slaughter, the animals have to be inspected through an ante mortem process to identity and isolate diseased and unhealthy animals. They are then held for a prescribed period to reduce on the stress which can affect the meat quality but also allows for emptying of the gut. Inadequate ante mortem inspection can Iead to risks of zoonotic diseases such as rift valley fever, anthrax, brucellosis, foot and mouth, tuberculosis, among others spreading a,,d affecting the producers, workers and consumers. Improper compliance to holding times can also affect the quality of the meat and further noncompliance to drug withdrawal times can lead to drug residues such as antibiotics in meat products which can contribute to drug resistance. The slaughtering process involves bleeding, skinning, dressing/ evisceration and post mortem inspection. At this stage blood, urine, fecal matter and other secretions are produced. Inadequate sanitary and hygiene conditions can lead to direct meat contamination. This may expose the workers to various diseases and antibiotics resistant strains of bacteria. This is because slaughter houses have common pathogens that impact public health such as salmonella, Escherichia coli, brucellosis, and tapeworms, among others. 6 /1 l.N N-3

6 FINDINGS: According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), animals are slaughtered in different spaces, namely: a) Slaughter slabs: there are 1,003 slaughter slabs spread in 93 districts. b) Slaughter houses: Central (23), Eastern (7), Northern (7), Western (7) and Karamoja (1). Table 1: Distribution of Slaughter Facilities in the country Region Specie (cattlel Swine Poultry Central 6 5 T2 Eastern 2 3 2 Western J I J Northern a 2 c Karamoia 1 0 0 Source: MAAIF The findings ofthe oversight are provided according to regions and the details for the abattoirs are provided on a case-by-case for each facility in the district, municipality and city visited. This section of the report presents hndings of tl:e oversight visit to abattoirs/ slaughter houses where nine cities and four district local government were covered. These included; Masaka City, Mbarara City, Fort Portal City, Hoima City, Masindi District, Jinja, Mbale, Lira and Kampala City. 6.1 Masaka City In Masaka, the committee visited the Masaka city Abattoir and Masaka city Pork Slaughter house. k W 9 FLC

Figure 4: Holdittg area of Mbale City Abattoir 6. loSoroti City Council Soroti Ciby has two abattoirs which are operated by a private entity contracted by Soroti City Council. These two facilities are the major slaughter house service providers for Soroti City. Soroti City has a siaughter facility for pigs. The committee was informed that the city council resolved to open up a pig slaughter point in order to regulate the hygiene of pork siaughtered in the region since many pork joints are being opened in the area. 6.11Lira City Lira City has two major abattoirs, but Lira Cify Abattoir is the biggest. It is managed by a private entity contracted by Lira City Council. The Lira Cattle Traders Association that runs the abattoir helps the city council to raise some minimal tax. 6, 12Kampala Capital City Kampala City has hve major Abattoirs / slaughter houses, these are; City Abattoir, Nsooba, Kishita, Wambizzi and Wankululu which are lq-.j 7 ately # N{

managed. These abattoirs/ slaughter houses slaughter cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and camel. There is no designated faciiity for poultry dressing. Table 2: Summary of Kampala Citg abattoirs bg locatton Abattoir Division Cattle Sheep and goats Pigs Camels City abattoir Central 18,537 4,493 0 0 Nsooba Kishita and Kawempe 18,634 9,802 0 o Wanbizzr Lubaga 0 0 976 0 Wankululukuku Lubaga 135 0 n 346 The Committee visited three abattorrs/ slaughter houses, namely the City Abattoir (KCCA), Nsooba and Kishita. 6.12.1 City /KCCA Abattoir The KCCA abattoir/ slaughter house was established in 1935, it was leased to a businessman Hassan Basajjabalaba in 201 1 for 49 years. His management lasted I0 years then wrangles with traders led to his exit. Since then the facility has been changing management. Following a Presidential Directive, in 2022, the facility is currently managed by KCCA under the Directorate of Gender Community Services and production (DGCS&P) with presence of the Directorate of Public Health and Environment. The Committee was informed that the slaughter house slaughters between 25O to 400 animals daily depending on the season. At the time of takeover by KCCA, there was a utility outstanding bill amounting to 600million. The Committee was informed that the bill was cleared by the current management and the facility currently makes prompt payment of bills. It was reported that the daily water expenses stand at UGX2.Smillion while the monthly bi1ls exceed shs.25mi11ion. 18 N$

below the standards of a modern abattoir. Taken together, only 21 percent of the facilities had identifiable slaughter spaces, namely Masaka and Mbarara (Central and Western Uganda), Jinja and Iganga (Eastern Uganda) City abattoir in Kampala. However, the slaughter spaces were very small, lacked concrete and hard slabs. Generally, the features of the facilities visited fall short of the characlerization of a modern abattoir. with exception of the new facility under construction; Kyentale Ward in Hoima City, nearly all the facilities visited had poor equipment and infrastructure establishment which is typical of local and traditional slaughter houses with old fashion means of operation. A modern city abattoir should have at least automated systems such as cold rooms for storage, pulleys for hoisting carcass, reliable water and electricity as opposed to the manual operations which cause delays and compromise the meat quality. Further, a modern facility should have a laboratory for testing animal health and the meat products. This includes diagnosing and confirming the suspicious cases to maintain public health measures. In the current form of the abattoirs, animals and the carcass are examined on the basis of physical characteristics which may not be sufficient to make empirical conclusions. A mini veterinary laboratory will be vital for diagnosing blood and meat to confirm the suspicious cases and maintain public health measures. Abattoirs can be a source of zoonotic diseases (diseases transmitted from animals to humans) and may expose workers to harmful pathogens. Further, none of the slaughter houses had specific structures for birds (poultry) and goats and only few had slaughter structures for pigs, these were in Masaka (Pork Master Ricks) Soroti and Mukono Municipalify, but all had small shelters with roofs erected on poles. Ei 21

the same person has to oversee atl the facilities in their location. The lack of present and fulltime supervision by technical staff was attributed to lack of adequate staffing at the local council authorities. The matter is worsened by lack of logistical support in terms of office space and transport facilities to enable the staff reach all Facilities. R.ecommendations: l. District local gooerttments should. recruit aeterinary extension staff to facilitate meat inspectlon services in uarious local gooernments. ti. MAAIF and Local goterTtments should provide the requisite training to equip extenslon workers uith knouledge on risk based meat lnspection that dlrectlg ho.s a bearing on the production of qualltg and safe meat dnd meat prod.ucts. 6.l SAvailability and compliance to the lcgal and regulatory provisions. The Committee noted that there are several laws governing management of abattoirs and meat production, however, the existing laws and regulations focus on animal diseases and movement leaving out the vital aspects of meat management, production, processing and transportation. A case in point is the Anima (Prevention of Cruelty) and the Animal Diseases Act, with the exception of the Kampala City Meat Ordinance which was enacted by the KCCA to regulate meat production. The Committee noted that although Public Health (Meat) Rules, Statutory Instrument 281-I8 clearly guides on how meat should be handled in terms of licensing of butcheries, marking of meat, examination of animals and carcasses, packaging, transportation, among others, these regulations were not adhered to by all the slaughter houses visited by the Committee hence not meeting food safety. 30

,Annex 2: Summary of the status of the abattoirs visited s/N ParaEeter Findiugs 1 Premises/ struct urc (Availability of facilities such as shade, dressing area, holding area, floor) Only 12 of 163%f of the 19 facilities had standing structures. However, with exception of the new facility in Hoima, the rest of the structures were in a poor condition manifested by poor wall conditions, poor roofs, floors and lacking tiles and terrazzo. a 2 Slaughter Area a A11 the facilities had slaughter spaces. However, with the exception of the new facility in Hoima City, the slaughter areas for all other facilities were below the standards of a modern abattoir. Taken together, there were only 4 (21%l facilities with identiiiable slaughter spaces, namely Masaka and Mbarara (Centeral and Western Uganda), Jinja and Iganga (Eastern Uganda) City abattoir in Kampala. However, the slaughter spaces were very small, lack of concrete and hard slabs. 2 Level sanitation hygiene of and a The major sanitation facilify was VIP latrines. Out of the 19 facilities visited, only 9 (47%) had VIP latrines. However, the conditions of the Iatrines were poor, manifested by lack water supply, dilapidated structures, smelly and many lacked demarcations for the male and female staff. 4 Waste Disposal and management a With exception of the new Facility in Hoima City, no facility had an established waste disposal and management system. Very few facilities had

Annex 4 TOTAL FEMALES SLAUGHTEREDI 17262 Females (Bovine, Goats and sheep) QUARTERLY REPORT OFCONDITIONS OBSERVED AT POST MORTEM AROUND KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY Central Abscess 134 45 t79 Black Liver 2 19 27 Bruising 253 26 279 Caseous Lymphadenitis 13 l2 25 CBPP i 5B CCPP 1 I 2 Congestion 5 T4 Cvsticercosis t23 Dead on Arrival (DoA) Edema 10 Emaciation 24 24 Emphysema 191 191 Fascioliasis 2151 87 2238 Hemorrhages 16 1 17 Hepatization 22 1 oe Hvdatidosis J 21 Hydronephrosis 6 U SYMPTOM KCCA DISEASE DIVISION Goats Sheep Bovine Swine 9 2 135 J 3 10 'to

15618 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Tuesday, 21 January 2025 We also lost a former Member of Parliament for Buyaga County, Hon. Ignatius Besisira, who represented the people of Buyaga in the Seventh and Ninth Parliaments. He has been serving as a member of the Local Government Finance Commission. He was buried on Saturday, and the Government granted him an official burial. We shall, therefore, be expecting the Leader of Government Business to table a motion to pay respect and of course, the same will be accorded to Hon. Baba Diri. On another sad note, Hon. Pauline Kyaka, Woman Member of Parliament for Lyantonde, has lost her mother, Mrs Leonada Kyaka. Remember, it was just a few weeks ago when she lost her father; it is a double tragedy. I happened to go to her home two or three months ago to see her sickly parents, and the two were extremely close. When her father died, her mother kept saying, “Release me also to go to find my beloved.” I do not know how many of us would qualify for that. The day we die and our spouses say they would like to follow us – don’t say – but well, I managed to go to Mengo Hospital early this morning, checked on her and she was thankful for the prayers and support you have always given her. There will be a vigil today at her home in Kira starting at 6.30 p.m. and burial will be on Thursday, the 23 rd of January at Kakyenkye in Kiruhura District. I request that we observe a moment of silence for our fallen comrades. (The House rose and observed a moment of silence.) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 2ND SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 2.26 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. In your communication, you mentioned that this is an election year, and rightly so because election is a process. It is not an event, as some people like to think of it: as the day of casting the ballot. It is a process that happens, beginning with the update of the voters’ register, all the way to all the other activities – nominations, campaigns, et cetera – and, eventually, voting. Mr Speaker, yesterday, the update of the voters’ register commenced, but with numerous challenges. This is an exercise that is meant to see new voters coming on board and people trying to be sure that their details are on the voters’ register – those who want to make transfers, and so on and so forth. In many places – and I am sure some colleagues, here, can attest – the process did not commence yesterday. We are trying to understand why. Did this just fall on the Electoral Commission and they woke up and realised they needed to start this process? Their officials were not in many places, including many parts of my constituency, which is just a few kilometres from Kampala. Now, think about colleagues who come from far-flung places. Mr Speaker, there has not been adequate awareness about this process by the Electoral Commission. Yesterday, I was dumbfounded to watch on the news about a number of LC I chairpersons and LC II – parish – chairpersons who did not know about this exercise, yet the Electoral Commission is meant to do this in tandem with these local officials. In a couple of places, you find that they have one computer per subcounty, and many of these computers are even faulty – they are not working as they should be. Mr Speaker, I would like to think that this is a very critical part of the election process. As I have said, an election is a process. I would like the Government to help us to understand whether they are taking this process seriously. Now that it did not even commence in time, as it should have, will they extend the time? We were actually concerned, thinking that the 30 days were not even adequate. Now, it did not even start in time –(Interjection)- 20 days – I beg your pardon. The 20 days, in our view, were not adequate but the process did not even start in time. Will the time be extended? The other concern that I do have, Mr Speaker, is that the process has been made extremely cumbersome, especially for the new voters. They have to get recommendations from GISO, DISO, HISO, FISO – I do not know what. It would make sense for the LC I chairpersons. That is understandable – they need to know the people in their areas and so on. However, why all these layers? Somebody has got a National ID, they are known by their LC I chairperson: why do they have to go and look for a GISO and, then, DISO? They go to their home or office, the place is locked – all of these, making the process problematic. Mr Speaker, I would like the Government to address these issues and help us to understand. Can the process be made a little bit longer and better awareness created? Thank you. [The Deputy Speaker] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on a matter of escalating garbage management in the city. If you move around the city, there is a lot of garbage heaps, which are even blocking some roads. I would like the minister for Kampala Capital City to come and address this issue. Otherwise - (Interjections) - please, I take it -

Most obliged, Mr Speaker. I would like the Minister of Kampala to come and address this issue because it is escalating. Garbage is everywhere; you find it on the roads and in markets. I beg to submit.

Thank you so much, Mr Speaker. I already brought up this matter earlier. This matter is not only in Kampala but also affects the people of Wakiso and the neighbourhood. When you look around - the tenders that were given to those in Kampala. Right now, they have contracted some officers or local councils in Wakiso, and whoever has a small portion can dispose of garbage there. So, it is really a very big problem. To make matters worse, local governments in Wakiso are no longer being consulted. Two, Mr Speaker, when we are talking about garbage, we cannot also forget that compensation for the Kiteezi people is still pending. That is also a matter that needs to be followed up.

Thank you. I will ask the minister for Kampala to come and update this House next week. Yes, Hon. Kwizera.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity also to add my voice in thanking the minister for his statement. Number one, as a Parliament, I think we owe our people a duty to guide this country on so many matters. The issue I would like to raise is the different government agencies’ failure to work together to develop solutions for our people. For example, we have just had a census conducted by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). Now, we have registration being done by NIRA. Then the Electoral Commission is also updating the voters’ register. If those agencies could come together – and we have the same information because we are talking about the same Ugandans - we would not have many challenges. As raised by Hon. Basil, I do not know if the registration of births, and deaths is being done. If it were being done, then that information would be readily available. Mr Speaker, imagine an era where we were in analogue, and our people were registered in the books at the subcounty. Even today, an old person of 60 years can go to the subcounty and find their details there - the date of birth or if someone died, they would register them. Why wouldn’t we do e-registration and have things online so that I do not have to come to Kampala or move from Rukiga to Kabale District to look for a NIRA office to put my details? Finally, the matter I would like to raise is about the expiry. The minister says it is a long-term objective. Why don’t we do it right now? Is the software to do that lacking? We should understand if, during this budget process, we can give you money to procure software from which all the people can be registered, and then the data is captured so that it is seamless. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I have two questions. One, I have noted with concern that the prices of the units for Yaka vary from time to time depending on when you are loading. I would also want the minister to clarify on that issue because the price is different, at the beginning of the month, in the middle, and at the end of the month. That is number one. Number two, now that the opportunity has presented itself, Mr Speaker, I asked this question here almost a year ago. The question is about the distribution of power following the loan that we passed and the launch, by the minister in your constituency, on the distribution of power. In Katikamu North County, which is only 40 miles away from Kampala, we have so many villages that are not yet connected to the national grid. I would also want the minister to explain that issue because we need power to better our lives. Thank you very much.

15581 Friday, 10 January 2025 His record of advocacy for better living conditions and humanity was very clear. He was very passionate about the healthcare services in Kawempe. I remember one time when he brought a Computed Tomography (CT) scan machine to Kawempe Hospital and ambulances. We are all aware that Hon. Ssegirinya had been unwell for about three years and Parliament has that record. On a special note, I would like to thank the Parliament for the support they gave Hon. Ssegirinya. The Parliamentary Commission took responsibility for meeting all the costs of his medication in both Kampala and Nairobi. We were hopeful that one day, one time, we would be seated in this House with Hon. Ssegirinya but God’s timing is never ours. He is no more. He is gone to be with Allah. Today is a sad day for us, as we bid farewell to Hon. Ssegirinya whose remains are about to be brought in. The painful reality has now dawned on us, as his beloved colleagues, that death is so cruel and real. At any one time, any of us will be there. When such a thing is happening, we all ought to be here to give a decent send- off to our colleagues. (Applause) There is no politics in this thing. We should never have politics when we have lost our own, because today it is me and tomorrow, it is somebody else. Honourable members, we are all imperfect mortal beings whose final destiny is death. I, therefore, urge all of you to love, appreciate IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - SPECIAL SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 9.04 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Annet Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Honourable members, it is with a deep, heavy heart that we convene again here today, to pay tribute to our own, our brother and colleague, Hon. Ssegirinya. The Member of Parliament for Kawempe Division North who passed on yesterday. On behalf of the Parliament of Uganda, and on my behalf, I relay our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Kawempe North, the Muslim fraternity, the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, and the good people of Uganda. Hon. Ssegirinya had a loving personality. He was a servant leader loved by many people right from the time he was a councillor in Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Hon. Ssegirinya was always referred to as “Mr Update”. Everybody loved Hon. Ssegirinya. His work and generosity enabled him to be elected to Parliament. Despite his short tenure as a legislator in the 11 th Parliament, he served the people of Kawempe North with dedication.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As you rightly put it, I am moving this motion by virtue of being currently in the chamber as the most senior, and I take it as an honour and a privilege. This is a motion for a resolution of Parliament to pay tribute to the late Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, Member of Parliament for Kawempe Division North Constituency, Kampala City, for his dedicated service to the Republic of Uganda. WHEREAS Parliament has, with deep sorrow, learnt of the death of Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya, Member of Parliament for Kawempe Division North Constituency, Kampala City, which occurred on 9 January 2025 at Lubaga Hospital in Kampala; RECOGNISING that the Hon. Ssegirinya Muhammad lived an industrious life and thorough hard work, dedicated and perseverance, rose from humble beginnings to become a Member of Parliament; FURTHER RECOGNISING that the Hon. Ssegirinya served in various capacities including being; a) Member of Parliament representing Kawempe Division North Constituency, Kampala City to the time of his demise b) Lord Councillor representing Kawempe North at City Hall in Kampala Capital City Authority from 2016 to 2021 c) International Coordinator of Love Uganda Foundation from 2016 to the time of his demise and; d) Director of Hope Children’s Primary School from 2014 to the time of his demise; APPRECIATING THAT the Hon. Ssegirinya was deeply passionate about community mobilisation, journalism, food security - especially in his constituency as exemplified through his passionate advocacy for various causes, including – (Interruption)

15587 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 10 JANUARY 2025 Hon. Ssegirinya first gained public attention through his participation in Kampala-based radio talk shows. His frequent spirited calls to these shows earned him recognition as Ssegirinya, eddoboozi lya Kyebando , translating to Ssegirinya, the voice of Kyebando. During these radio engagements, he would refer to himself as MP-to-be. Each time he would call, he would say, “Ssegirinya Muhammad, eddoboozi lya Kyebando , MP-to-be.” This was in the early 2000s, over 15 years, before he would eventually become a legislator. This speaks of the fact that when one is resilient and steadfast, it is possible to achieve one’s aspirations. In 2016, he was elected as the Lord Councillor for Kawempe North in KCCA. He used this position and platform to advocate for social justice and community development. His vibrant personality and commitment to grassroots issues endeared him to many people. During the 2021 elections, Hon. Ssegirinya contested for the parliamentary seat of Kawempe North, under NUP, and won overwhelmingly. He set out to serve his people in various ways, especially health care, filling the gaps that were created by Government, things that we do as Members of Parliament, which should be done by Government: buying ambulances, building health care centres, fundraisings - colleagues normally call us for fundraisings, both on the Opposition and the Government side, for a Government health centre, fundraising for this and that. However, here we are, and Hon. Ssegirinya was filling those gaps as a Member of Parliament. Unfortunately, not long after he had joined this August House, he was arrested and jailed for a long period of time over the Bijambiya Panga attacks on the population of Masaka region, which saw the killing of many Ugandans. To date, Madam Speaker, justice eludes the bereaved families because the question of who killed their loved ones has never been answered. While in prison, Hon. Ssegirinya got severely sick and his condition kept deteriorating by the day. He was constantly denied bail, as we all saw, even though his condition was worrisome. Even when Government doctors recommended specialised treatment for him that warranted him to be granted bail, the judge still sent him back to prison where he continued to worsen, each passing day. His lawyers made a plea and produced before court, medical records signed by Government doctors, saying this man should be released on bail to get specialised treatment. The judge said, “No, go back to jail.” After a while, Hon. Ssegirinya was granted bail only for him to be abducted outside Kigo Prison by gun-wielding men in plain clothes, in total violation of our country’s laws. This disregard for the rule of law continues unabated in our country, and as we have witnessed, it affects all of us, including colleagues on the Government side, as you have seen very recently. We must jointly castigate this and call for its end. Many Ugandans have been abducted in a similar manner, and to-date, they are still missing. All this is in a country, which prides itself in following constitutionalism. We should be ashamed of these acts. Madam Speaker, the denial of bail to Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya feeds into the recent narrative by Gen. Yoweri Museveni, lately. He has called for denial of bail and even police bond, something which is not in tandem with our constitutional order. While bail and police bond may not be mandatory, directing judicial officers and police officers not to give it to those before them is unbecoming, and should be condemned by us all because we are all potential victims. As we send off Hon. Ssegirinya, may we commit to respect the rule of law, because he suffered due to the disregard for the rule of law. Of late, we have seen threats from our country’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, threatening our neighbouring countries, including Kenya, South Sudan, DRC, and the threats have extended to his colleagues in the military, and even leaders in this country. He, for example, threatened

15593 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 10 JANUARY 2025 He was an ardent supporter of change for this nation, not because he disliked those who lead this country in person, but their policies, because he grew up as a poor man in a poor family. He hardly spent two or three years with his father because his father died at a young age and he was a soldier of this Government. That impacted his brain so much; being fatherless and his father dying under unclear circumstances. He tried to come to Kampala through so many means, Madam Speaker, to fight for his dreams. What disturbed him so much was our incarceration; that after standing on the tables, talking so much to see that he scores that goal he wanted so much; to be a Member of Parliament in this country, there came uncertainties and the fate fell on us. He said, in his own words that, “What would I want after being a Member of Parliament? I am a poor man from a poor family. I am going to earn close to Shs 25 million - because for him he thought it was to be Shs 25 million - I can now touch Shs 5 million at once. Now what would I want next? But because I wanted to serve my people so well, there might be envy somewhere that I predict as a person.” He was someone who would joke, Madam Speaker. He would crack jokes and we would laugh - for almost two years. But again, I also put my voice on those Members of Parliament who have mentioned it clearly and the public at large that the right to a fair hearing entails a right to bail because everyone is innocent until proven guilty. This man, after only two days, started complaining of his chronic sickness that he had before incarceration. He wanted to seek medical attention in Germany because he had been in Germany for the same. He had prepared for alternative treatment by a specialist coming from India to Germany in some hospital and that chance was not given to him because he was denied bail. Madam Speaker, I thank you for your support to this gentleman, especially during all those times we were under incarceration. But, I again cry to this Government that today, Hon. Ssegirinya is lying there. Everyone knows that the Government cannot go away from this because if he had got that medication earlier, even the Government would not have spent Shs 900 million. It would be him to facilitate his own medication and he would be alive today. However, because of that and the politics that we have in this country, that gentleman is lying there. His children are too young to lose a father who was very courageous, who has gone through hell to have something on the table for his children and the mother. Madam Speaker, it should come from all voices of courage, whatever party you belong to, to call for better leadership of this country in a united way. We shared and talked so much and I know that you went to God as an unsatisfied man because it was not your time to go, but because of politics, you have gone. Rest in peace, Hon. Ssegirinya. Fight harder. (Applause)

I rise to pay tribute to our fallen comrade whom I got to know in 2007 through activism. We used to share a lot but again, I also got the opportunity to serve with him at City Hall. When we had just joined in 2016, he was a member of the Committee on Physical Planning, which I was chairing at the time, and it was always fun. We joined KCCA when it had a lot of challenges, most especially when it came to trade order. There was a time when the then Executive Director of KCCA, Jennifer Musisi, wanted to send off all the boys who were operating on the streets of Kampala, yet the Government had no plan to relocate them. We fought tirelessly with him. For those who remember, that is the period when he turned himself into a market vendor. He had passion for the common man, no wonder, God had to pay him. I want to thank the Almighty God who turned Hon. Ssegirinya from the lowest of the low. We used to share a lot and we had many issues in common. One of them is that we both lost our dear fathers when we were still very young. His commitment to fighting for freedom for this country was real. For those who think that Hon. Ssegirinya was a comedian, they are wrong. He wanted to see a new Uganda. (Applause) My message goes to the Government, because we all know what transpired. Hon. Ssegirinya went to prison many times. He was not charged with theft, he was not charged with defilement, but he was always being charged for fighting for the common man. I call upon all leaders in this country to put our country first the way Hon. Ssegirinya has always been doing. We are going to miss him, most especially as the people of Kampala. Lastly, Madam Speaker, when we were contesting for KCCA speakership for the first time, I contested against him. However, he never had any personal vendetta against me. We stayed friends, and I recall that even after the elections, he approached me, conceded and said that he wanted to serve on my council. We trusted him with being the chairperson of the public health committee. For those who remember him, he spent almost a month running to all places of Kampala, celebrating how he was appointed as the chairperson of the standing committee on public health. We are going to miss you. May your soul rest in eternal peace. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

15531 Thursday, 9 January 2025 Honourable members, this year, 2025, is going to be, notably, a political year, where various political parties will have primaries at various levels. They will have nominations but as Parliament, we will make sure that we harmonise the Parliamentary calendar together with that of the Electoral Commission so that you are able to perform your duty as a Member of Parliament, and also be able to go and stand and maybe compete to come back to Parliament. We will not disadvantage you but we will work together with you and see how we synchronise the calendar to fit the nominations of political parties. Honourable members, there is an issue that was raised on the Floor on the 28 th of November by the Leader of the Opposition in the House referring to the purported money, which had got lost from Bank of Uganda. We asked for a forensic investigation on that money. The Auditor-General has done a very good job. They have done the investigation and given me the report. I request the Commissioner to lay the report as per Rule 32 of the Rules of Procedure. Give the report to Commissioner Emeritus. The other commissioners are at the hospital. Hon. Obua, can you help me lay the report on the investigation of Bank of Uganda? IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 1ST SITTING - THIRD MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. We will need a response on that. We will also require you to respond on the Jinja-Kampala Expressway and the Mabira road, where you are just patching. Honourable minister, just get –

I think what we are going to do is to wait for a Ministry of Works and Transport so that we can find out what is happening and why are we having a camp instead of having a road. Next item. MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT TO AUTHORISE GOVERNMENT TO BORROW UP TO EURO 45.0 MILLION FROM THE AGENCE FRANCAISE DE DEVELOPPEMENT (AFD) TO SUPPORT THE KAMPALA WATER-LAKE VICTORIA WATER AND SANITATION II (KW-LV WATSAN II) PROJECT

Honourable members, as you may recall, on 17 December 2024, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development laid a proposal to authorise the borrowing from AFD to support the Kampala Water-Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation II, KW-LV WATSAN II project. The proposal was referred to the committee and the report is ready for presentation. Before we do that, pursuant to Article 159(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Rule 155 of the Rules of Procedure. I invite the minister to move a motion to the effect.

Madam Speaker, in line with Article 159 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Rule 155 of the Rules of Procedure, I beg to move a motion for a resolution of Parliament to authorise the Government to borrow up to EURO 45 million from the Agence Francaise de Development (AFD) to support the Kampala Water-Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation II project. I beg to move.

Agence Française de Développement (AFD). The terms are as follows: Loan amount, € 45 million. The effective interest rate is to be determined at the time of signature. This will be based on liability of six months minus 174 best points equivalent to 0.4 per cent as at 25 September 2024. The commitment fee - why we determine at the date of signing, is a variable rate. The commitment fee is 0.5 per cent per annum on undisbursed loans, the appraisal fee is 0.5 per cent calculated on the maximum amount of the facility, and the maturity period or tenure is 20 years, including the grace period of six years. What are the benefits of the project? In summary, we have an abundant water supply; a capacity of 160 million litres per day at Katosi Water Treatment Plant with sufficient transmission and storage capacity, but with inadequate water distribution capacity to reach customers of the greater Kampala metropolitan area. Hence, we cannot realise the full value of the investment. Two, the Government of Uganda in 2012 undertook the Kampala Water-Lake Victoria WATSAN (I) and (II) projects to provide a long- term response to the growing water demand in the greater Kampala metropolitan area. In 2015, to identify, optimise, and schedule the related investments, the Government of Uganda commissioned the Greater Kampala Water Supply Master Plan. In 2021, in compliance with the Master Plan, the Government of Uganda completed the construction of the Katosi system, a major infrastructure aimed at supplying bulk drinking water to the inhabitants of the Greater Kampala metropolitan area. Some works on the plant’s

Thank you, Madam Speak - er. I beg to lay on the Table minutes of the re - port of the committee held on 8 th of January in a consideration of this loan. This is the report of the Committee on National Economy on the proposal by the Government to borrow Euro 45 million from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) in the form of additional funding towards implementing Kampala Water - Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation II Project. The minister has already taken us through the background, performance, and components; justification for the loan, the project’s cost and financing, and the conditions. Allow me proceed to observations and recommendations. That is on page 11. I am happy it is uploaded. Madam Speaker, the committee observed that both the Ministry of Water and Environment and National Water and Sewage Corporation have implemented loan finance projects over the years. The committee, however, notes that while the loan projects implemented by National Water and Sewerage Corporation are efficiently and effectively utilised, there is still an implementation challenge with loans under the Ministry of Water and Environment, as evidenced by poorly done or stalled projects. Direct execution of projects, in effect, increases the project’s cost, as well as affecting the quality of works and this ultimately affects value for money.

15553 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 9 JANUARY 2025 The committee recommends that the Ministry of Water and Environment should scale up its efforts in the project implementation methodology in order to adequately and timely execute the projects and realise value for money. Need to reduce the cost of water tariff The committee noted that the cost of water per unit is Shs 5,000 at the level of domestic consumption. It was also noted that whereas National Water and Sewerage Corporation charges Shs 25 per 20 litre jerry can for community/kiosks, some vendors charge the end user up to Shs 200 thus, further making water unaffordable for the ordinary person, limiting consumption, which in turn affects revenues of the agency. This cost is prohibitive to the majority urban poor. National Water and Sewerage Corporation informed the committee that the high cost of Shs 5,000 is brought by high cost of electricity and other maintenance costs incurred by the agency. They also informed the committee that the cost is likely to come down since power tariffs are reducing. The committee recommends that: i) Water tariffs should be reduced so that it can be easily made affordable by all, regardless of socio-economic categories. (Applause) ii) National Water and Sewerage Corporation should come up with a circular regarding the price of water for vendors, beyond which they should not charge the ordinary customer. (Applause) iii) Punitive measures should be put in place for those who do not adhere to this directive. Need for enhanced water supply in the country The committee notes that the high growth of the country’s urban population, in addition to rapid urbanisation of the rural areas has increased demand for domestic, industrial and water for agriculture. However, several challenges are still faced in the water sector, such as scarcity, climate change and water quality. The increasing rate of waste water production with inadequate wastewater treatment resources and systems often lead to affluent discharge into water systems. This does not only lead to the degradation of downstream ecosystems but also causes healthy problems to humans and the environment. The committee recommends that the Government should prioritise budgets for the water sector as guided by Agenda 2030, Sustainable Development Goal number Six, in order to address water and sanitation demands for the increasing population. Need for inter-sectoral coordination The committee noted the continued destruction of the road infrastructure by utility service providers, such as telecommunication companies, electricity, and national water itself. This destruction increases the maintenance costs of the service lines. Recommendation The Ministry of Works and Transport should spearhead coordination of activities of all utility service providers and incorporate service lines in all new road infrastructure designs to mitigate future destruction. Conclusion The committee recommends that the proposal by Government to borrow up to Euro 45 million from the Agence Française de Développement , additional support to Kampala Water - Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project at a revised interest rate of six months Euribor, that is, -1.74 per cent as at 25 September, 2024; be approved subject recommendations herein. I beg to move.

Thank you. Honourable members, I put the question on the motion for a resolution of Parliament to authorise the Government to borrow up to 45 million Euros from the Agence Française de Developpement (AFD) to support Kampala Water- Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation II (KW-LV WATSAN II) Project be approved by this House. (Question put and agreed to.)

Honourable colleagues, join me in congratulating our colleagues who participated in the 14 th Edition of the East African Parliamentary Games in Mombasa, Kenya. The teams excelled in many disciplines and at an appropriate time, I will give the Chairperson of the Uganda Parliamentary Sports Club to present the trophies that we won in Mombasa. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 5TH SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 2.05 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala . PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order . COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15495 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 19 DECEMBER 2024 LAYING OF PAPERS I. ADDENDUM TO THE PROPOSAL TO BORROW UP TO SPECIAL DRAWING RIGHTS $374.8 MILLION (EQUIVALENT TO USD 518 MILLION) AND RECEIVE A GRANT OF SPECIAL DRAWING RIGHTS OF 34.8 MILLION (EQUIVALENT TO USD 48 MILLION) FROM THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION OF THE WORLD BANK GROUP, AND BORROW UP TO EUROS 42.66 MILLION) FROM AGENCE FRANCAISE DE DEVELOPMENT (AFD), TO FINANCE THE GREATER KAMPALA METROPOLITAN AREA URBAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (GKMA)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I beg to lay on the Table an addendum to the proposal to borrow up to Special Drawing Rights $374.8 million (an equivalent to USD 518 million) and receive a grant Special Drawing Rights of 34.8 million (an equivalent to USD 48 million) from the International Development Association of the World Bank Group, and borrow up to Euros 40 million (an equivalent of $42.66 million) Agence Francaise de Development (AFD), to finance the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Program (GKMA). I beg to lay, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, honourable minister. The loan proposal is referred to the Committee on National Economy in consultation with the Committee on Presidential Affairs, as per Rule 155 (2) of our Rules of Procedure. Vice-chairperson of the Committee on National Economy, do you have something to say? You had an issue? No, Rule 155(2) - you talk to the sectoral committee – So, the Committee on Presidential Affairs comes in because of Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA). Thank you. Next item? II. PROPOSAL TO BORROW UP TO EUROS 45 MILLION FROM THE AGENCE FRANCAISE DE DEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT KAMPALA WATER, LAKE VICTORIA WATER AND SANITATION II PROJECT

Mr Speaker, I beg to lay on the Table the proposal to borrow up to Euros 45 million from AFD to support Kampala water, Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation II (KWLV Watts and II Project). I beg to lay.

15497 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 19 DECEMBER 2024 talks of sectors the way it is now. As long as we do not amend the PFMA on our side, we cannot amend our rules to provide for committee- based programmes. Therefore, the earlier you do that, the better. However, honourable chairpersons who get problems while you are processing, you should come, and we will guide you on how to handle. Last year, we had a problem; I think it was the Committee on Presidential Affairs and the Committee on Physical Infrastructure - while processing the budget for Kampala City Infrastructure. The one of infrastructure - it is their programme, but they were saying that they do not see the money. The Committee on Presidential Affairs was also failing. Therefore, we agreed that since the Committee on Presidential Affairs has been looking after Kampala, let it handle, but the earlier we cure this, the better. Honourable minister, you also wanted to add something to that?

Mr Speaker, we sent in the statement to the Clerk; I hope it was uploaded to the Member’s iPads and this is really for information purposes because it is updating Parliament on what Government will be doing in January. I make this statement to Parliament in line with Rule 52 of the Rules of Procedure to brief the House on Uganda’s hosting of the forthcoming African Union Extraordinary Assembly on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CADAP) that will be held on 9 th to 11 th of January 2025. In November 2023, Uganda, represented by the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, was elected to chair the African Union Specialised Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment and one of Uganda’s key deliverables during its tenure is to oversee the development of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme Strategy and Action Plan for 2026-2035. The CADAP is a flagship Africa-wide programme adopted in 2003 by African Union Heads of State and Government as a framework of action for agricultural transformation across Africa. One of the major strategies towards the realisation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, “The Africa we want”. The CADAP is implemented through 10-year successive strategies and action plans. The first 10-year strategy was adopted in Maputo, Mozambique in 2003, and the second in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea in 2014 for the period 2015-2025. The third, 2026-2035, will be adopted during the forthcoming Extraordinary Assembly Summit of the African Union in Kampala on 9 th to 11 th January 2025 to be hosted at Speke Resort, Munyonyo. The result of this assembly will be the Kampala CADAP Declaration, which will guide the continent for the next

15508 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT 10 years. I therefore felt that I should brief Parliament on this. The decision to host the Extraordinary Summit was made by the 37 th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from February 17 th to 18 th , 2024. The structure of the Extraordinary Summit will be: 9 th January 2025 - Meeting of ministers responsible for agriculture will be with relevant experts; 10 th January 2025 - Meeting of ministers of foreign affairs with ministers in charge of agriculture; 11 th January 2025 - Extraordinary summit of Heads of State and Government. The theme of the CADAP strategy and action plan, 2026-35 and the Assembly is, “ Sustainable and resilient agri-food systems for a healthy and prosperous Africa.” As part of the summit, the Government of Uganda and the African Union Commission will host two major side events on women and youth in agri-food systems and refugees/forced migration and agri-food systems in Africa. These two will be held under the sub-theme, “Building Resilience of Agri-Food Systems through Commercialisation”. In addition to this, the African Union Commission has launched a call for proposals for side events that are related to the theme of the Summit and objectives of the CADAP Strategy and Action Plan 2026-2035. The expected attendance of the Summit is 49 African Union member states at Heads of State and Government level, plus regional economic communities, development partners, and agriculture practitioners overall. Over 2,000 participants are expected to participate in both the summit and the side events in Kampala. Mr Speaker, assessment of country implementation of the CADAP is independently done at continental level by the African Union Development Agents, (AUDA-NEPAD) and partners through the biannual reviews. The most recent biannual review, the fourth, was undertaken in 2023 and noted that no country was on track to achieve the Malabo targets by 2025. The continent, as a whole, was not on track with regard to implementing the seven commitments of the Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared, Prosperous and Improved Livelihoods. However, some Member States have shown continuous progress from the first to the fourth biannual reviews. Special mention for Member States that have shown continuous improvement in their scores from the first to the fourth biannual review, where Comoros, Lesotho, Cape Verde, Zimbabwe, Gambia, Nigeria, Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Rwanda, Burundi, and Kenya. Overall, the rating of Uganda’s implementation of CADAP is given in the 2023 biannual review as “progressing well” thanks to the several Government policies and programmes that foster resilience to climate change, inclusivity, and the integration of several CADAP initiatives in the National Development Plan. Mr Speaker, allow me to formally register to you our gratitude as the Executive arm of Government for the continual support you have rendered in implementing programmes that have enabled us to achieve this rating in the implementation of CADAP. I urge you to continue rendering that support so that together, we can drive the transformation of Africa’s agricultural sector and stand to benefit more from that transformation as a country. Mr Speaker, allow me to brief you on our preparedness to host the summit. Following the decision of the February 2024 African Union General Assembly in Addis Ababa to host an extraordinary summit to consider and adopt the post-Malabo CADAP Agenda, the Governments, through the Ministries of Agriculture and Foreign Affairs, commenced preparatory works, including the presentation [Mr Tumwebaze] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

15509 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 19 DECEMBER 2024 of a Cabinet Paper on 30 September 2024, constitution of the National Organising Committee, and invitations to the African Union Heads of State and Government for the summit. The technical documents, which include the CADAP Strategy and Action Plan 2026-2035 and the Kampala CADAP Declaration have already been concluded under the leadership of the African Union Commission and the Strategic Direction of Uganda and were adopted by AU member states for presentation to the Assembly by the ministerial segment of the Special Technical Committee on 25 October 2024. A recent African Union Commission assessment mission, November 11 th to 15 th , classified the country’s state of preparedness as commendable. Benefits of hosting the summit in Kampala As I conclude my statement, let me highlight that Uganda stands to reap several benefits from hosting the African Union Extraordinary Assembly of Heads of State and Government and the benefits include: 1. It is an opportunity for the country to guide and shape continental policies and strategies in the agriculture sector and related sectors for the next 10 years. 2. The blueprint of Africa’s Agriculture Transformation will be referred to as the Kampala Declaration for the period up to 2035, thus enhancing the profile and international credibility of Uganda as a country. 3. With the anticipated number of participants in the assembly, Uganda’s private sector will earn considerably big. The Government will also ultimately earn increased tax collection from the enhanced private sector earnings. 4. The hosting of another big event at the Heads of State and Government level within a year of hosting the NAM and G77 plus China summits will improve the international rating of Uganda as a conference destination, hence promoting the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and reaffirm the country’s credibility as an icon of peace and stability in the region. This has an important positive bearing on investment, attraction and tourism, besides its reputational benefits. Mr Speaker, the formal invitation to Parliament will be delivered in due course and I request that you create time to attend. Mr Speaker, I once again thank you for giving me an opportunity to brief you on this topical subject and for listening to me. I appreciate the support you have rendered to us in the past and urge you to continue doing the same. I submit.

Thank you. Honourable colleagues, when you see an issue bringing Hon. Kamara to Kampala, then just know it is a very serious one. Yes, Rt Hon. Prime Minister.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I will be very brief. I want to thank the Prime Minister for dispensing lots of justice to the questions. (Applause) A quick one on traffic lights, which is the question that was raised by the Hon. Aogon of Kumi Municipality. Much as these traffic lights are hyped, where they are even in the capital city here, most of them are malfunctioning. I would like the Prime Minister to appreciate that either they could be using old technology or - because most of these junctions in Kampala if it were not for traffic police officers, there would be accidents and lots of confusion and clashes by road users because of those traffic lights malfunctions. This last question on road maintenance in disaster-prone districts, places that have natural calamities like floods or even landslides; the ministry should regularly prevail upon accounting officers not to have roadworks during heavy downpours. This has always affected the structural integrity of roads all over. With those few comments, I rest my case.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. In your communication on Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) - we are always battling with funding gaps here in the country. The Uganda National Bureau of IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 4TH SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 2.00 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker and colleagues, first of all, for the spirit of the Pamoja bid, for the purposes of AFCON 2027 and for purposes of CHAN 2025, let me begin by congratulating our sister Parliament of the Republic of Kenya for supporting this initiative led by you, Madam Speaker here for Uganda, your colleague in Kenya and Tanzania. For the record, Coach Ocholla is one of the longest serving parliamentary coaches in the East African Parliamentary Games, because I joined this Parliament in the 9 th Parliament when Uganda hosted the games here in Kampala. If I may recall, and he knows it, in Namboole, it was Uganda 7, Kenya 0 and I am happy that we will be meeting in Mombasa soon. Madam Speaker, I have been reliably informed that the opening game is the defending champions who are ourselves as Parliament of Uganda Football Club and the Parliament of Kenya who are the hosts. Coach Ocholla, we meet in Mombasa, but we are ready to remain the champions of East Africa. Welcome to Uganda. Congratulations. Thank you so much. Karibu sana .

Thank you so much, honourable members. Honourable members, I just want to re-echo, in the spirit of collegiality and spirit of keeping decorum in the House, let us learn to have respect for each other because today we are here, tomorrow we shall meet in the streets of Kampala when some people do not come back and others come back. I will still remember how you called me a hooligan, how you called me whichever. Let us live together in harmony. As I said before, this is your second home. If you cannot have peace in your second home then where will you ever get peace? If you have frustration from somewhere, when you enter here, first keep off your frustration and then put a smile on your face for the sake of legislation. I urge all of you that we are all brothers and sisters. We are all equal in this House, nobody is bigger than the other. We should learn to love ourselves. Let it be today when Hon. Ethel is not in the House, everybody is missing Ethel but let it not be like if Ethel is not there it is good riddance, whether she comes or not. Like I always miss Hon. Aisha, whenever she is not there. That kind of – all of you, if you are not in the House, I miss all my Members of Parliament. We should live together and love each other. I would like to thank you for the Bill. As you go to your constituencies, create awareness about the Bill. Let our children out there not remain doing nothing when we have the Bill in place. We have the money to fund the Bill. Let these children go and do skilling and all they can do to avoid redundancy. Lastly, we have been having amendments to the Rules of Procedure. We will make the Rules of Procedure stringent so that people will learn that when people are watching us out there, they should know that they are watching honourable Members of Parliament not horrible members. Thank you. Yes, honourable minister?

15361 Thursday, 28 November 2024 The landslides in Bulambuli have been reported to have buried 40 households across the estimated six villages. The process of recovering the bodies is ongoing. We really need urgent action from the Prime Minister’s office – that is the minister for disaster preparedness. These people need to be supported. Based on that, it now takes us back to the issue of the Uganda Red Cross Act. The Uganda Red Cross Act was enacted in 1964. It is almost obsolete now. We need the Government to ensure that the Uganda Red Cross Bill is brought to this House and then we have an Act that helps on what should be done and how these people should be operating. We need a legal framework on which Uganda Red Cross should be operating. Honourable members, as we commemorate the World AIDS Day on 1 December 2024 – this day will fall on a Sunday – I will invoke Rule 25 (1) of the Rules of Procedure to vary the Order Paper and accommodate a statement from the minister for the presidency – whom I do not see here. We need a statement for that. In the public gallery, I see some people clad in orange—that is against domestic violence. Madam Anyoti, you are most welcome. (Applause) We thank you very much. We will also expect a statement on issues of domestic violence. However, I do not see the responsible person here. Based on the fact that – now that the people have not yet come, we will vary and give IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 3RD SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I want to thank you for your communication. I remember yesterday, when I was in the House, you asked the Government to respond immediately to the crisis on Pakwach Bridge. Madam Speaker, you referred to us having lost an engineer from UNRA. It is sad, indeed. Our condolences to the family and to the Government that has lost such an experienced person. Madam Speaker, we recently rationalised UNRA. From my experience, whenever we would have a crisis, we had a number of phone numbers to call. If you could not reach the director in Kampala, you would call the regional managers and a number of other engineers, from UNRA, to come and respond to the crisis, particularly in our respective constituencies. The rationalisation meant that it is now the commissioner – is it the engineer- in-chief? Who is in charge of coordination and receiving our calls? You will agree with me that it is very difficult for him to receive phone calls from the number of constituencies that we have in this country. Therefore, we ask the Minister of Works and Transport to provide lines that we can call so that they can respond to various crises that are going or happening in our respective constituencies. The roads which the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) used to work on have been washed away by the rains. Some bridges have been washed away and we are stuck. We are on the Floor and there is no minister from the Ministry of Works and Transport. Even if I got out to call that engineer, the whole day, I would not be able to talk to him. We are like hitting a dead end. I would like to use this opportunity, Madam Speaker, since you have mentioned UNRA which was politely abolished due to rationalisation to state that we need those help lines. . I beg to submit.

15382 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT MINISTERIAL STATEMENT [Ms Mutuuzo] while calling for peaceful coexistence and respect for human rights. The cultural institutions, under the umbrella of the Council for Traditional Leaders of Africa (COTLA), Uganda Chapter, have made several commitments to end violence against women and girls. We have strengthened coordination for addressing gender-based violence from the national to local level. The structure includes the high-level GBV referral groups at the national level, which has committees at the district level. Other local structures and initiatives to address gender-based violence include the women and youth peace mediators who provide mediation in communities, the male role models and male action groups, survivor support groups, para- social workers and paralegal who have been the community foot soldiers in offering support and referral pathway to gender-based violence survivors. Madam Speaker, this year’s global theme is “Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls”. Uganda has adopted this global theme as a national theme. The campaign calls for all duty-bearers, state and non-state actors around the world to end violence against women and girls and prioritises the review of the 30 years of implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and the political declaration focusing on commitment, accountability and resourcing. This includes the implementation of comprehensive strategies in partnership with women’s rights organisations, allocating necessary budgets and actively reporting on progress to end impunity and prevent violence against women and girls with particular urgency regarding its extreme manifestation of femicide, which is escalating worldwide and is beginning to crop within our systems. Femicide is the deliberate killing of women because of their gender. When we were tallying the biggest causes of violence, there was a point to alcohol and drug abuse this year, 2024, and the second one – we were evaluating the performance of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and many of the people who are reporting violence are talking about the men’s need to control the PDM money, which has been received by women. As the global community approaches the 30 th anniversary review of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and following the 2023 SDG Summit calls for accelerated progress towards achieving the 2030 Agenda, violence against women and girls remains alarmingly prevalent across private and public space and across all its forms. Despite the efforts to demand justice and accountability and some notable progress in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls, significant challenges persist and they need to be addressed. The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development is coordinating the organisation of the national launch, which was held on 25 November 2024 at Hotel Africana, Kampala. A number of activities have also been planned by stakeholders, including government MDAs, development partners, civil society organisations, the private sector, religious, traditional and cultural leaders throughout the 16 days across the country. The 16 days of the activism campaign have already commenced and they started on the International Day of Elimination of All Forms of Violence against Women and Girls. This was flagged off in various activities up to the district level and we shall progress with the national theme. It will end on 10 December 2024. This is just the battle time; the fight continues throughout the year. Madam Speaker, I wish to inform you that the objective of the campaign is to call for action,

Madam Speaker, is Hon. Kyofatogabye in order to cross the front row on the right-hand side to the front row on the left - the state minister for Kampala.

Madam Speaker and honourable members, I move under Rule 28 of our Rules of Procedure that requires me as Leader of Government Business to make a statement in this House regarding the business of the succeeding week. Below is the business of the succeeding week from 3 rd to 5 th December, 2024; 1. The Public Service Pension Fund Bill, 2023; 2. The UPDF (Amendment) Bill, 2024; 3. Statement by the Minister of Internal Affairs on expired Ugandan National Identity Cards; 4. The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development will present a comprehensive report regarding key issues on Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project in the country; 5. The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development will present a statement updating the House on the prepaid YAKA Meter upgrade; 6. A statement by the Minister of Education and Sports on the new A-Level curriculum; 7. A statement will be presented by the Minister of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), on the drainage status of Jugula drainage channel, which feeds into Nakivubo channel, which caused massive flooding on St. Balikuddembe Market (Owino). Madam Speaker, I beg to move.

Madam Speaker, as usual, I received a question from Hon. Hellen Kahunde, District Woman Representative, Kiryandongo, on e-waste management. According to her, it is a crucial component of development and environmental protection. It involves the safe disposal and re-use of electronic products such as computers, cell phones, printers, and other digital devices that are no longer in use. Her prayer is: what are Government’s e-waste disposal and management interventions in Uganda? Madam Speaker and colleagues, my response is that the Ministry of Information, Communica - tions Technology and National Guidance coor - dinates –(Interjection)- Madam Speaker, I beg for your protection. The Ministry of Informa - tion, Communications Technology and Nation - al Guidance coordinates the implementation of the E-Waste Management Policy supported by the E-Waste Steering Committee, which in - cludes the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). These institutions collab - orate to ensure sustainable management of e-waste. The E-Waste Management Policy, 2012 provides an overarching framework for e-waste management. Madam Speaker, this is augmented by the Strategy for Electronic Waste Management, 2013 and Guidelines for E-Waste Management in Uganda, 2016. The revised National Environment Act, 2019 established a legal framework for waste management and provides for aspects of e-waste management schemes, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and equipment return to vendor (take back) schemes. The National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations, 2020 further include specific provisions on the management of e-waste separate from hazardous waste. Madam Speaker, the Government through the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), in collaboration with other stakeholders, launched the E-Waste Management Collection Centre located at plot 66, 6 th Street Industrial Area in Kampala in June 2021. The centre carries out rudimentary management of e-waste including collection, sorting, and dismantling. Additionally, private e-waste management handlers, such as BIN it, Nabugabo Updeal Joint Venture, Meridian Waste Uganda Limited, have been licensed by NEMA to handle various aspects of e-waste management including collecting, sorting, dismantling and disposal. Cognisant that the country’s e-waste management infrastructure is still rudimentary and insufficient, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, with funding from the World Bank, is undertaking a project to establish a central e-waste management centre and regional collection to facilitate effective and sustainable e-waste collection. Plans include subsequently progressing to refurbishment and recycling of e-waste in the long term. Madam Speaker, the Government is currently undertaking the following measures due to the increased need to address e-waste management; i) Review of the E-Waste Policy, 2012; ii) Needs and readiness assessment of e-waste collection centres; iii) Infrastructure and process requirements evaluation for e-waste management facilities; iv) Capacity building of handlers on e-waste management; v) Training of stakeholders on e-waste management; vi) Assessment of the operations and capacity of stakeholders and the e-waste collection

15297 Wednesday, 27 November 2024 when it is written or told, that is when you know how you were raised and went through. This book is called, “The Boy Who Runs”. I am no longer a boy, but the time I was running, I was a boy it captured more of the time before I was born, just like Jesus, until the end. I want to highlight a little bit when my mom was in labour, we never had a hospital and the nearest was seven kilometers away. She walked when she was in labour and the next morning I was born, which means I was practicing to be an Olympian - (Laughter) - We had measles, one of the deadly diseases and I got sick at the age of eight and was pronounced dead. When they dug the grave and I was about to be buried, I sneezed twice and fortunately, the mourners who were around heard me sneeze and then I was removed from the grave. Again, at 10 years old, when we had rebel activities in Uganda in 1988. I was one of the boys who was captured at the age of 10, we walked 100 kilometers for three days to Soroti. I stayed three months in the bush and I escaped when the Government plane called “Surambaya” - some of you might have heard about it- 16 of us, unfortunately nine of my friends did not come back home. But I escaped and went back to school. I was told that when you run, you either get a scholarship or become an Olympian. I got motivation because I wanted to get a IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 2ND SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15305 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 2024 Therefore, we are still moving with debts. Despite this, we have been able to complete our calendar with the national rally championship which ended in Hoima last weekend. We also finished our motocross championship the weekend before in Mityana. That was the fourth round. We have done our Go-Kart Championship. We still have some pending events. There is one more round of the Enduro Championship. There is a motorsport sprint on boxing day which is the last sprint and it is a very big event for any members who might be around Kampala on boxing day. Get yourself to Busika and enjoy some of the high-octane motorsports. We have one autocross left, which is going to be in Mbarara. There is also an international event which is the Central Africa Championship, where Uganda is defending the Central African Championship, which is going to be held in December in Mombasa. With these pending events, I am really appealing to you, Madam Speaker, that finance meet their obligations, because when you look at some of our young athletes, they put in a lot of effort. They have really trained and prepared themselves for these events. Of course, many go through a lot of injuries, others are recovering from injuries, as motorsport is not a very simple, gentle sport. However, they represented Uganda very well. In Morocco, the team which was there was well-respected, even though, as a team, we had to disassemble our bikes completely. Most teams went with their bikes partly assembled, but to save on cost and space, we completely disassembled. When we arrived there, the bikes were also delayed; on arrival, we were putting them together on the race day. Many of the teams were shocked, but we had a lot of support from other teams and the mechanics also came and helped us put our bikes together. On the track, I want to really congratulate the young people. They did not disappoint. They really held our flag up high and they represented Uganda very well. (Applause) In the future of motorsports, I request that the support is timely and we continue to build this sport. We are going to endeavour next year to get the championship. I also would like to point out that because finance have often declared that they have supported us with a lot of money, it is very hard to do anything because people assume that the federation has money. We have got all sorts of people crawling around looking for that money not knowing that we are struggling just to get our calendar complete. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I thank you for this opportunity and I thank you for allowing us and these young people to join the House in our official motocross jerseys. Thank you.

Just hold on, honourable committee chairperson. In the public gallery, we have a delegation of students from Joy Dominion Secondary School, Bunya West Constituency. They are represented by Hon. Bagiire and Hon. Rukia. You are most welcome. Thank you so much for coming. Sorry, we delayed to introduce you. In public gallery, we also we have a delegation of students from Kampala International University, Makindye East, Kampala. They are represented by Hon. Derick Nyeko and Hon. Shamim Malende. Welcome and thank you so much for coming. Yes.

15349 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 2024 conclusion of terminating the concession of Tibet Hima Automobile. This report contains the background to the Kilembe Mines concession and documents the salient issues arising in the report of the concession. The performance or non-performance of the key concession obligations and the recommendations of the Kilembe Mines Winding-up Commission The committee was appointed by myself, Hon. Evelyn Anite, the minister of state for finance in charge of investment and privatisation. The committee commenced its work on 5 July 2017. I gave the House the background on how I arrived at this point of constituting the commission. The winding-up commission was established by virtue of the express provisions of the concession agreement entered into by and between the Government of the Republic of Uganda, Kilembe Mines Limited and Tibet Hima Mining Coal Limited, the concessionaire. The establishment of the winding up commission was done as a result of the Government of Uganda having issued a notice of termination of the concession agreement referred to above and which termination notice, save for a cure of an event which expired on the 5 September 2017. Madam Speaker, I gave you a background on how I arrived at this point – because I was prompted, first of all, by the President of the Republic of Uganda in Cabinet and through a public address at Serena, Kampala, and this House. Under the terms of the concession agreement, the concessionaire was required, within 30 days of the establishment of the winding up commission, to present to the winding up commission a summary report on the status of operation as at the date of termination notice and to present a final report 60 days after the establishment of the winding up commission – I emphasise the “60 days”. The concession agreement then required the winding up commission to deliberate and recommend to the Government of Uganda whether the concession and the concessionaire should seek to transfer the assets and operations to their third party or render for the potential of full cessation of operations, and disposition of assets in accordance with the terms of the concession agreement. The winding up commission identified four key areas in respect of which they required the concessionaire to address them. The concessionaire was required to inform the winding-up commission on: i) What the status of operations at Kilembe Mines was at the date of termination; ii) The expectations and deliverables under the concession agreement and what had been achieved; iii) Any challenges faced by the concessionaire; and iv) The strategies the concessionaire had for the fulfilment of the concession obligations. The winding-up commission held several detailed meetings over a period span of close to four months while implementing its mandate. Madam Speaker, I need to pause there a little bit and inform you that the spirit in which the committee reported that we did not give them time, I do not do this and the other, is wrong because even then, it took four months for us, both the concessionaire and the Government, to try to make good of the concession within the winding up period. The concessionaire, upon prompting of the commission, presented a draft report and summary report on account of the voluminous nature of the information that had been provided during the concession meetings and engagements. The concessionaire never provided a final report, but requested the winding up commission to consider the summary report and the documentation provided, as constituted in its final report. The winding up commission then deliberated, obtained a Chinese translation of its report

He rose on a procedural issue. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 1ST SITTING - SECOND MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS The oaths were administered to: 1. Ms Grace Akifeza Ngabirano

Honourable members, I welcome you to this afternoon’s sitting. As you may be aware, Section 9(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015, requires the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to Table the National Budget Framework Paper by the 30 th day of December. We also want to request, if possible, that you present the National Budget Framework Paper earlier to allow Members to look at it extensively. As we draw closer to the end of the year, I implore the minister to ensure this process is handled as fast as possible because it is a festive season. Honourable members, as we come to the end of the third term, a long holiday, this calls for effective parenting. Parents out there, urge your children to be in desirable and secure communities. Honourable members, yesterday, the 25 th of November, marked the commencement of 16 days of “Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.” It is a period of reflection on the gains in the prevention and elimination of the gender-based violence. As we are aware, both women and men are potential victims and perpetrators of gender- based violence. As leaders, we should continue to further the fight against it. A peaceful society begins with a peaceful family. I want us to ensure that we have a peaceful society by advocating for non-violence. Last Thursday, the nation witnessed an incident of gun violence in the suburbs of Ntinda, Kampala, where two lives were lost. Aware that security is a vital precondition for meaningful social and economic activity, the security agencies should effectively tackle this criminality and bring those people to book. I urge the Government to interest itself in that issue. Thank you so much. I also got a statement from Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju that he would want to lay at Table. So, let us have his statement, and then, we will debate both of them. Hon. Aisha Kabanda-

15270 THE NATIONAL TEACHERS’ BILL, 2024 Condition number three is about the project’s operation manual. It has been prepared and adopted by the Government and the project implementing entity in the form and substance acceptable to IDA, and this has been done. I also provide information on progress toward the legal covenants of the PAD and show the activities like the activity of recruiting the project management implementation unit, the various specialists who have already been recruited to implement the project. The table also shows the other activity of establishing and maintaining a project steering committee and technical committee, the responses are in the third column. All the required preliminary activities, like preparing and furnishing the World Bank with the annual work plans and budgets, have been done. I think the honourable members can read that table to see the various activities and what has been done. Under this project, we are also going to procure laptops to facilitate digital transformation. The status is that the process was going on but the individual who had tendered was dissatisfied with the decision. He appealed to PPDA and the Tribunal. And the Tribunal found merit in the appeal. Now, NITA-U has appealed to court, so there is a court process regarding that procurement. This is common in this country, where people always seek court redress and appeals. This is part of the delays that occasion most of these procurements. That is where we are in terms of the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP). UDAP, like I have said, has three components: building digital infrastructure, strengthening e-government systems, and addressing digital inclusion for the refugee-hosting communities. The other project in the National Backbone Infrastructure(NBI)Phase 5 project is the optic fibre extension, which is supported by the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of China, to the tune of $150 million. This is a key Government project that seeks to further expand the NBI across underserved areas of Uganda. As I said earlier, this is Phase 5, funded to the tune of $150 million. We expect to extend this internet fibre to the rest of the country so that communities that are not yet hooked on this NBI can get connected. Under Phase 5 of the NBI/EGI, the following activities will be undertaken. a. Expansion of the backbone. We intend to extend and build up to 5,845.75 kilometres of optical fibre cable, covering an additional 63 districts across the country. There are other districts which will be covered by the other World Bank supported up to 20 and when you add what is already covered, we should be able to cover the whole country. b. We shall also build 21 NBI transmission sites across the country. c. We also do what we call last-mile connections. Last-mile connections mean that you have the main transmission routes, like, say, Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara; that is the main transmission route. But there are roads that lead to districts and communities. We shall be building the main transmission optic fibre but also do last-mile connections to districts, health facilities, schools, and other public installations. d. We shall extend connectivity to all sub- counties across the country and e. Expand the Wi-Fi coverage by an additional 1,754 public Wi-Fi sites across the country and also install solar power in all the new NBI transmission sites as an alternative source of power, upgrade the network monitoring system and environmental management system for the entire network. f. We shall also build a data centre in Namanve, so that we upgrade the existing data centre, MINISTERIAL STATEMENT [Dr Baryomunsi]

15275 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 26 NOVEMBER 2024 able to get this information. That is where we are going to through the project which is going to be undertaken by NIRA. Yes, so true, at the moment, we have not reached there, but that is where we are going; so that you do not have to be asked questions everywhere you go for a service. The system should have your information. Whether the Wi-Fi hotspots are not functional - you present as if a hotspot is the whole town of Kampala. No, they are specifically designated hotspots, and you must know where the hotspot is. That is why I have provided a list of where they are - but I will cross-check. I have not been to all these hotspots so, I will cross-check and if they are not working, then we should make them functional, as we have said. Finally - the Speaker is saying I have little time. I must summarise to enable other Members to make their comments. With leave of the Speaker –(Interjections)- the Speaker has already cautioned me to summarise. Okay.

15292 THE NATIONAL TEACHERS’ BILL, 2024 Furthermore, the Ministry of Education and Sports was not able to demonstrate to the committee the importance of establishing a council and, therefore, the establishment of the National Teachers Council is against the policy of rationalisation. What is our recommendation, as the minority? Instead of creating a council of seven members, the Government should direct those funds to the districts, particularly to the inspection department, to oversee and supervise the performance of teachers in schools. This will enable the proper evaluation of the performance of teachers, as opposed to the establishment of a council to carry out their role – and, most likely, they will be living here, in Kampala. 4.2. Continuous professional development Clause 9(g), (h) and (i) of the Bill provides that the council shall develop or cause to be developed continuous professional development programmes for teachers, accredit providers to offer continuous professional development for teachers, and conduct training of trainers of continuous professional development programmes. The Bill goes ahead, under clause 45, to require every teacher engaged in teaching to undertake continuous professional development. Furthermore, clause 45 (4) provides that the council may suspend the practicing licence of a teacher who fails to undertake continuous professional development. The Ministry of Education and Sports informed the committee that, just like other professions, teachers should meet the cost of their continuous professional development programmes. We note that similar requirements for continuous professional development exist in the Advocates Act, Cap. 295, under section 10, which provides that the committee shall conduct and promote continuous legal education for qualified legal practitioners. Section 3 of the Uganda Law Society Act Cap. 305 provides that the law council shall exercise, through the committee, general supervision and control over professional legal education in Uganda, including continuous legal education for persons qualified to practice law in Uganda. In practice, Uganda Law Society requires advocates to pay fees for different continuous legal education trainings throughout the year. These fees range from Shs 100,000 for online courses up to Shs 500,000 for physical courses. Following a benchmarking visit to Ghana by some members of the committee, the members interacted with the national teaching council of Ghana, which informed the committee that teachers in public schools in Ghana are given continuous professional development allowances by the Government. The requirement for continuous professional development for teachers raises questions on affordability of continuous professional development programmes for teachers, considering their monthly pay. Unlike other professionals such as advocates, accountants and surveyors, among others, teachers are not well remunerated. For instance, a primary teacher earns about Shs 400,000 per month, and a nursery teacher earns around Shs 200,000 - (Interruptions)- which does not cover most of the basic needs of a teacher. Recommendation Hon. Muyingo is looking at me. The Government should fully cover costs of continuous professional development for teachers. (Applause) If not, it should not be a mandatory requirement for teachers, which causes cancellation of licences. 4.3 Licensing of teachers Clause 33 of the Bill provides for licensing of teachers and clause 36 provides that teachers will be required to renew the licence after every four years. The teachers will also be required to pay for the licences and their renewal. The current regime is favourable in that a teacher is not required to pay for the registration or licensing. However, the Bill gives the council

Honourable members, can we maintain silence? When somebody is speaking, please, maintain silence. Remember, this is the LOP speaking and you are making noise. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 32ND SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Which meeting of the Commonwealth have I been stopped from attending? I am actually going to a Commonwealth meeting tonight. I am the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Speakers, and our next meeting will be in India. The one of Samoa is CHOGM and it is being attended by the Vice President of this country, representing the President. (Applause) The Speaker was not part of it because it is for presidents. The Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) is for Speakers, which I am going to tomorrow. CHOGM is for Heads of State. Tomorrow, when you become President, that is the one you will be attending. For us small people we attend the other one. (Laughter) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 31ST SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 10.05 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker, first, for encouraging Members to listen to each other. Number one, there is something called “mischief”. I was an adult when we established these agencies and the reason given by the Government was that we were establishing strategic agencies to propel the development of this country. After painfully listening to my brother, Hon. Rwamirama, who I will not refer to as “Bright” today - (Laughter) - I heard him saying that the mischief was about the fat salaries. If it was about the fat salaries and humongous budgets then, before we rationalise UCDA and these agencies, we should start with those who created these humongous expenditures. Indeed, if we are to rationalise on a rational basis, we should start with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. We gave them district farm institutes. Where are they? Where is the farm in Buikwe? We gave them extension farmers. Where are they? If we are to deal with redundant expenditure, we should - we gave them ranches. Where are they? We should start with the rationalisation of this ministry itself and not entrust it with the functions of an entity that has been the brightest star in the country. (Applause) Madam Speaker, we were informed by the majority report yesterday - and I want to thank my sister, the chairperson - that coffee has been accounting for 55 per cent of the agricultural exports. Why don’t we want to spend on entities and areas which give us money? The reason we maintain agencies like Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) is because they are strategic. Do you want to tell me that a blameless entity called UCDA, which has promoted coffee after the destruction and death of Coffee Marketing Board, should be sacrificed because some people are not doing their work? Can we talk about expenditure in a Government or Parliament, for strategic reasons, that gives money to a private company and then we say we cannot give money to an agency? We were informed yesterday that this Authority is going to be absorbed in the ministry. At what level? As a directorate? A department? As a unit? Since when? If we are to do this, why don’t we get Authorities like Kampala Capital City Authority, Uganda Investment Authority, Uganda Revenue Authority and put them back to the mother ministries, because we want to rationalise? Madam Speaker, there are people who are deeply concerned in this country. Why haven’t

Hon. Allan, Hon. Isaiah, Hon. Kirabo, Hon. Miriam, “Maama Mbale” - I am coming down, what is the problem? MR ALLAN SSEWANYANA (NUP, Makindye Division West, Kampala) Thank you, Madam Speaker, for giving me an opportunity. I am not speaking as a coffee farmer but as a consumer who represents coffee consumers of Makindye and Kampala at large and some other areas. As a coffee consumer, I am worried about the quality of coffee, which will be supplied to us in the market because UCDA has been ensuring quality coffee in the market, both in Uganda and beyond. If it is taken to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, we are very worried as consumers that our very favoured coffee will not be favoured in the whole market because of the lackluster way of the agricultural ministry - the way they do things - not concentrating on the coffee bean quality. That is why I do not support the rationalisation of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority. As consumers and businessmen, we are going to suffer with poor quality coffee being produced under the supervision of the agricultural ministry. I beg to move.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As the people of Wakiso District, who are affected, we also thank Parliament and you, Madam Speaker, in particularly, for standing with us and sending those sympathies to all our people and Ugandans. Madam Speaker, allow me to report to this Parliament that from yesterday afternoon until this morning, I have been involved in this matter. From 7.00 a.m. up to the time when I left – towards 9.00 a.m. – I had been at the site. It is very unfortunate that Ugandans died; it is a pity. Madam Speaker, we request and pray - what I established is that over 35 people are already dead and over 70 people were, first, taken to Bombo Hospital, but have now been referred to Kiruddu. Several tried their best, but it was not easy. Over 300 metres – because it was a trench of fuel that had to run on and it caught fire. Different homesteads and buildings – with shops – were affected. Many people who were in their homes died. Madam Speaker, as we handle this matter, similar incidents occurred earlier, in the same place. It is a very steep slope. Three accidents occurred earlier in the same area. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 30TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Honourable members, I welcome you to this morning sitting. As you are aware, yesterday, there was a tragic accident, where a fuel tanker overturned in Kigogwa, on Kampala-Gulu Highway, and later exploded into flames, leaving scores dead and destroying various roadside buildings and businesses. Over the last few years, we have witnessed similar cases, notably: in January 2021 at Namungoona, on the Northern Bypass, where at least 33 people died; and in Rubirizi in 2019, where 20 people died. Such incidents point the need to sensitise our locals on public safety during such incidents. We condole with the bereaved families and pray that the Lord comforts them during this trying time. It was such a bad moment, but God’s timing is never our timing. May we rise and observe a moment of silence for those who lost their lives. (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.)

15025 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 23 OCTOBER 2024 My prayer is: can we have several stations for the police fire brigade, especially for the Kampala Metropolitan Area? Let us have fire brigades at different points countrywide. We cannot rely mainly on this Kampala stations, because it took over one-and-a-half hours for the police to negotiate their way to the scene. It was not easy. For those of you who were out here, you saw the cars rushing to the place. We are also praying that this place in particular – the humps are a little ahead, in Bombo. Those who know that place, it is next to Bombo. It is at the border with Luwero. It is a very serious slope. This truck failed and there was another car that was getting in. So, we pray that the Minister of Works and Transport gets in position to put some humps in this area, due to the several accidents that have occurred there. We are also praying that heavy trucks, those that are carrying heavy loads, should move at night. A similar scenario almost occurred on Kyaggwe Road. We had just finished the plenary here and, as I was rushing to CBS, a truck almost caused an accident. So, we pray that trucks carrying heavy loads should move at night, not during day, especially in the Kampala Metropolitan Area and other densely populated areas. Finally, Madam Speaker, you have hinted on it. Let us have continuous campaigns on how to handle road accidents, especially involving fuel-carrying trucks. This incident could have been prevented if people were aware. Unfortunately, they hurried to go and start siphoning fuel. To make matters worse – I have just established it – nearby, there was a charcoal stove; someone was roasting maize. It was very unfortunate. Madam Speaker, we are praying that for these people who were in their homesteads, carrying out their usual businesses – there were shops that were affected – let us quickly have some compensation. Let the minister get on the scene. The municipality of Nansana and the district of Wakiso are yet to produce the disaster reports, but let us have some work done and help the families to see to it that they send off their people – the over 30 who are already dead. I was there at the scene, but it was very disturbing. I pray and thank you so much.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for raising this tragic matter in this August House. It is very disturbing. As the Shadow Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, I raised a matter here, whereby the Prime Minister and the minister responsible promised to produce a comprehensive report to this Parliament. The matter I raised was regarding the mushrooming petrol stations in Kampala and the metropolitan area. It is very disturbing. We are -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I was still building my point. A while ago, the President gave a directive that fuel trucks should not enter Kampala during daytime. This tragedy happened during the day and it is very disturbing.

15026 THE NATIONAL COFFEE (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 are implemented and the guidelines within Kampala and Kampala Metropolitan area. Madam Speaker, the regulation regarding the construction of petrol stations specifies that petrol stations are supposed to be 200 meters away from each other. But you find that petrol stations are very close to each other. We are sitting on a time bomb as a country and especially here in Kampala. We ask the Government: (i) To implement the directive of the President; (ii) Secondly, to revise and implement those guidelines so that we can save lives. It is very disturbing and it is very unfortunate. I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. I join you in mourning the people who lost their lives and wish those ones who are injured a quick recovery. There are two things I want to point out. The first one, without prejudice to the skills and the entrepreneurship of Ugandans, many tanks are fabricated for different purposes here in Kampala, for example for ferrying water, but because of the challenges in the business environment, they are turned into fuel transport.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am going to read the executive summary. The report is quite big. Because of time, I will deal majorly with the executive summary. This is the report of the Committee on Public Accounts, on audited reports of 37 district local governments, 3 cities, 6 divisions and 10 municipal councils for the financial year ended June 2023. Madam Speaker, in accordance with Article 163(5)(a) of the Constitution and Rule 182(5) of our Rules of Procedure, the Committee on Public Accounts (Local Government) considered the report of the Auditor-General for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and wishes to report its finding to this House. Madam Speaker, the report covers the key issues in the report which will be categorised into two sections, namely; key issues in local government and key audit matters, both general and cross-cutting queries in the local government. This report, which covers 56 local governments under Kampala, Gulu, and Arua has been compiled based on the findings of the Auditor-General and observations of the committee mainly to show the state of the local governments and to aid policymakers in improving the performance of the local governments as highlighted below. Madam Speaker, we are looking at the key audit issues in local governments, general and cross-cutting. We are starting with the budget performance. The committee has considered audit reports of 56 local governments for the Financial Year 2022/2023 that were appropriated public funds and this includes three cities, 37 district local governments, 10 municipal councils and six city divisions.

15092 THE NATIONAL COFFEE (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 Total appropriated budget to local governments for the Financial Year 2022/2023; Parliament appropriated a sum of Shs 5,220 billion to all local governments in the country, out of which Shs 4,750.2 billion, equivalent to 99 per cent of the approved budget, was warranted to the local governments for service delivery. The shortfall in revenue was Shs 469.8 billion. During the year, based on warrants for the 56 entities, Madam Speaker, that forms Kampala, Gulu, and Arua audit regions, they had an approved budget allocation of Shs 2,131.453 billion, equivalent to 41 per cent of the budget allocated to all local governments during the fiscal years under review. During the financial year, a sum of Shs 1,940.37 billion was released to the 56 entities for the implementation of various Government programmes - of the approved Shs 2,131.45 billion. Thus the entity had a revenue receipt shortfall of Shs 191 billion, which is equivalent to nine per cent unrealised funds. Further, of the availed resources amounting to Shs 1,940 billion, only Shs 1,493 billion was utilised, leading to a balance of Shs 446.8 billion thus translating into absorption of 77 per cent of the availed resources. 5.1.2 Local Government Absorption Capacity The 56 local government reports considered were warranted or released a sum of Shs 1,940.37 billion equivalent to 41 per cent of the total warrants to all the local government budgeted during the Financial Year 2022/2023. Out of the resources warranted to the 56 local governments, Shs 1,493 billion was expended -

15109 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 23 OCTOBER 2024 same time, I thank the chairperson for giving us a very elaborate report. I want to bring our attention to U-GIFT projects in this country. I come from a district where Nebbi is one of the beneficiaries of these U-GIFT projects. However, one of the things I believe is affecting every part of this country under that project is the hybrid nature of awarding contracts. We have two such projects in my district. The contractor would have finished last year, but how the contractor is moving with those two projects is discouraging. To make matters worse, the district officials who should be doing their supervisory exercise are normally underrated by these contractors; the reason being that the people who gave them the contracts are within Kampala. First of all, we are aware that there is a high increase in the number of learners in secondary schools and we have very few infrastructures. Therefore, we keep praying to the Government that the contractors should have financial muscles so that by the time the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development is not releasing enough funds, at least they have something and can do the work to help our people. Right now as I talk, the two secondary schools under U-GIFT have stalled. Apparently, you see no work being done. I am a Member of the Committee on Education and Sports and we went there. Madam Speaker, what you see there will prompt you to read the book of Lamentation. Let us open our eyes to ensure we benefit from this Government money. Thank you.

If you feel that our local people cannot manage, empower them. You can empower them by training, but giving these projects and you follow them up - We have a feeling that something is done behind them that we do not understand. This is because some shoddy work has been done. The procurement is done here and is implemented there and they tell those local people not to monitor the work. They say, “It is us to come from Kampala to supervise” and things are going bad. The roads and other projects are bad. Another example is the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). In my constituency, they got that money. It was a lot of money, Madam Speaker, but if you see the kind of work - it is one of the bridges which I raised - A lot of money, Shs 1.7 billion plus other closed roads - but if you see the kind of work that was done - if it was given to the local government, I think it would have worked better. Honourable minister, I implore you to look around and see how you can implement decentralisation that is entrenched in the Constitution than decentralisation. Then, on the 25 per cent of this Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) project - still on procurement - those people who have even received it are saying, “I would rather use my money to buy instead of giving the 25 per cent.” These pumps they procure for them are terrible. They are of poor quality. That is why people cry that the Government has not done anything. It is putting in a lot of money but because of the way it is implemented, it ends up being a useless project. It is a good project that you should revise. Can you use these recommendations so that we get something out of the project that the Government is putting money into? Thank you.

Kampala

They were also from Kampala - let me give information to the Member for Kasanda South to expound this issue very well - (Interruption)

14960 THE COTTON DEVELOPMENT ( A MENDMENT) B I L L , 2 024 Tuesday, 22 October 2024 We acknowledge the sacrifice that the police personnel are making, and we urge the public to treat them with respect, especially when they are executing their duty; and you slap a person who is on duty? A woman who is a mother slaps a son? I do not think that is good for us as women. That is an embarrassment to all the women in Uganda. On that note, I apologise on behalf of all the women because not all of them do that. The women that we have in Uganda are mothers and they respect themselves. We cannot go on a rampage slapping our sons. It is a very bad attitude and it portrays a bad image of women. This person was especially innocent and doing his work. If you know that you have made a mistake, the word “sorry” does not cost you much. Honourable members, we received a report from the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) on the Consolidated Fund Account, and it was deferred for a final decision pending the response from the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. I am reliably informed that the minister is ready. The Government Chief Whip will let us know where the minister is. Therefore, we will vary the Order Paper for the minister to respond to Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi’s report. I will also vary the Order Paper to allow the Leader of the Opposition - he says he has one report that is ready. We asked him to bring reports on his visits. We will give him time to present his report. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 29TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 10.00 a.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

I think, Madam Speaker, it is very important that all Members of this House and all members of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) respect the work of the Uganda Police Force. We recently had an incident where a traffic policeman in Kisaasi was shot at by a UPDF officer, by the name of Babangida Mango. That police officer called Robert Mukebezi , for purposes of specificity, had his leg amputated but that traffic policeman called Robert Mukebezi, who was on duty, up to date, has not seen justice. His children are at home and not at school. But there is no evidence that the UPDF officer called Babangida Mango was arraigned before the court for the police officer to get justice. Madam Speaker, it is very important that even the UPDF officers, some of whom are here, should respect the policemen who are on the road doing their work. One time, the policemen on the road were off and it took me seven hours to drive from Kampala to home. So, we must start respecting traffic policemen who are on the road. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, thank you. Now that we are talking about matters of police, all police barracks, especially those around Kampala, are experiencing load-shedding. For most barracks, power is switched off at 5.00 a.m. and then switched on at 7.00. p.m. But sometimes the nature of the police work - some work during the night. So, they must prepare to iron their uniform and be on duty, especially those who guard Very Important People (VIPs). They are supposed to be on duty by 6.00 a.m. but for the whole day, the power is off. If the Government of Uganda cannot provide power 24/7 hours to the police barracks, whom will they give power to? You loadshed police barracks? COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14967 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2024 There are also other issues to do with communication whereby some officers cannot receive their messages or orders. May we know and get a reason why police barracks, especially around Kampala and other upcountry barracks experience load-shedding and water - I am reminded of - water being supplied at intervals. Otherwise, these police officers cannot speak for themselves because that will constitute a mutiny, Madam Speaker.

14969 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT O F U G A N D A T U E S D A Y , 2 2 O C T O B E R 2 024 1,500 shares. This move would ensure that the Government becomes a shareholder in this company, giving it leverage in decision-making; 2. The aspect of protection of jobs. ROKO says it employs 1,800 Ugandans directly and has indirect business relationships with thousands of others, including subcontractors, suppliers and others. The Government’s bailout was intended to prevent massive layoffs and the potential for economic ripple effects; 3. Completion of Government projects. ROKO was involved and continues to be involved in several strategic Government projects, including the completion of the Parliament Building, the Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development building, and several others. The Government’s stake was meant to ensure that these projects continue without delay, as a collapse of ROKO would lead to delayed completion of these projects. However, to date, some of the infrastructure projects that were fronted as a reason for the approval of this investment have not been completed. A case in point is the Parliamentary Chambers and IGG House, among others. Madam Speaker and colleagues, as you know, Parliament spends billions annually to rent office space for Members and staff at Kingdom Kampala and Queen’s Chambers. We would not be spending this money if our Parliamentary Chambers were completed. 4. Financial restructuring. The bailout also involved a financial restructuring plan to help ROKO manage its debt. ROKO had accumulated a significant liability with commercial banks, contractors and suppliers which had led to liquidity challenges. Let me briefly, as I begin to wrap up, talk about the oversight visit that we held to the office. In fulfilment of Section 6A and E of the Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Act, 2006, I led a delegation of some members of the shadow cabinet to visit this company’s head office, but we were denied access. Aware that ROKO Construction had received a bailout from the Government of Uganda, the objective of the oversight visit was to ascertain whether the rationale for the bailout was achieved and to establish as well if the governance and management challenges of ROKO were being addressed. However, it should be noted that this oversight visit did not come to fruition as I have mentioned because when we went to the ROKO Head Office located in Kawempe, Ttula - and that was meant to be on Monday, 14 th October – we were denied entry to the premises to have an engagement with the management team, thus impeding this oversight engagement. In a letter, the Managing Director, Mark Koehler, said that the Board had rejected the planned engagement with Members of Parliament and the company’s management. Our areas of concern, Madam Speaker, are that Government construction projects have continued to stall despite this bailout and this raises a lot of questions. I have talked about the Parliamentary Chambers whose target of completion was July 2021 but that has not happened yet. The current shareholding is unclear and the Government needs to clarify this, Madam Speaker. It is unknown whether amendments were made to include the Government of Uganda’s investment and how much it owns in equity, what type of shares, and so on. The Government ought to explain this effect. The Government ought to appraise Parliament on the latest financial standing of this company given that it approached Parliament with a bailout request. I think it is prudent that the House deserves to be given accountability for this bailout money. The Government cannot just come to Parliament when it requires money and when we are asking questions, it is missing; it is important that this taxpayer’s money is accounted for. We

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, for that communication and request to the minister to come through and give clear guidelines. I have been interacting with my community and I have found cases in Kassanda and I had no answer, as a Member of Parliament. The families are there with conditions of mpox and - (Interjection) - What are you saying? Yes, the conditions are there within our communities. Therefore, the earlier we get communication, first of all, on how to handle and protect ourselves, the better. The Ministry of Health should really come out clearly and help. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 28TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in the Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, because we have cut forests around Kampala and Lake Victoria, today when you go to Kira, especially in my neighbourhood and in my own home, monkeys have moved in because. They are now on the trees in people’s compounds and they are -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am the minister keeping these mon - keys on behalf of all of us, the Ugandans, but they are ours. Well, there are some Members who have raised the issue of monkeys disturbing them and we have assisted them. We have what we call vermin officers, at most of the local governments. If the problem is big, we will deploy wildlife officers for you to have these monkeys removed and relocated to some other areas. It is important for this House to note that these monkeys you talk about have been part of our society. They do not migrate from anywhere else. There is no monkey from Jinja to Kampala. The ones in Wakiso, probably before the forests were cut, were part of that ecosystem.

Thank you. It is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts (Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE)) and it should report back within six months from today. MOTION FOR ADOPTION OF THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ACCOUNTS (COMMISSIONS, STATUTORY AUTHORITIES AND STATE ENTERPRISES (COSASE)) ON THE REPORT OF THE AUDITOR-GENERAL ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023 FOR THE FOLLOWING ENTITIES: KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY AUTHORITY (KCCA), NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (NEMA), UGANDA NATIONAL ROADS AUTHORITY (UNRA), UGANDA BUREAU OF STATISTICS (UBOS), UGANDA AIDS COMMISSION, UGANDA PROPERTY HOLDINGS LIMITED (UPHL), ELECTRICITY REGULATORY AUTHORITY (ERA), UGANDA HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (UHRC), LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE COMMISSION (LGFC), FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE AUTHORITY (FIA), NATIONAL ENTERPRISES CORPORATION (NEC), NATIONAL CHILDREN’S AUTHORITY (NCA), AND THE CAPITAL MARKETS AUTHORITY (CMA)

I apologise to my colleague. Thank you for the report. Madam Speaker, on the Order Paper, the report mentioned a number of entities, from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) to the Uganda Bureau of Statistic (UBOS). I am failing to understand what our colleague is presenting. Is this a cross-cutting summary for all of them?

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Indeed, it is my duty to make you understand – (Laughter) - at the beginning, I mentioned that these are the general observations and that we would come to the specifics. On delivery of services from implemented activities, the committee observes that some of the approved outputs and activities were fully quantified and the requisite resources availed to them for execution and therefore, could not be affected by funding. However, it is the delayed release that affected specific activities in terms of time, acceptable quality, quantity, cost and functionality. In addition, the peculiarity of some entities such as the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), which deal with very detailed costing for engineering and related work, made it difficult to align their activities to the Programme Budgeting System (PBS), calling for upgrading of the PBS to match the activities. The recommendations are: i) Accounting officers should stick to the planned activities as per the approved work plans in order to achieve the expected output. The emphasis here is that we approve the budget based on the work plans presented to Parliament. A distortion of the work plans distorts the budget and takes away our power of appropriation; ii) The accounting officers should adjust their work plans in the subsequent financial year to accommodate activities that were not implemented due to the non-release of funds; and iii) The PBS should be realigned to suit the peculiarity of institutions that partially conform to the structure of conventional governmental institutions. Management of the Government salary payroll The committee observed that: i) Failure by entities to maintain updated and accurate staff records puts employees at risk of losing out on their benefits in case of exit from the service; ii) The inability of entities to absorb all their wage bill, locked up resources that would have been used to deliver services elsewhere; iii) The tendency to consume more funds than the approved wage budget without approval is irregular and goes against the Public Finance Management Act, 2015; and iv) The continuous understaffing had left several staff establishments unfilled, thereby denying services of these office holders to the would-be beneficiaries. Recommendations i) Accounting officers should budget for wages in a realistic manner, in consideration of the existing staff needs;

14918 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT ii) Accounting officers should ensure that all their staff payrolls are updated periodically to ensure an accurate database of employees and establish tracking mechanisms to update the same. This requires migration from the manual to a digital system; and iii) The Ministry of Finance should avail adequate wage budget to facilitate recruitment of staff as per the entities’ staff establishment. On non-enrolment on the Integrated Personnel and Payroll System and Human Capital Management system (IPPS/HCM), the committee notes that a number of rigidities were found in the system and that hindered full enrolment such as limited information fields. The few information fields provided on the system limit the amount of individual data that can be captured. However, the entities informed the committee that they were working to reconcile with the public service system to be successfully enrolled on the IPPS. We observe that the failure to enrol on the IPPS/HCM amounted to noncompliance on the side of the entities. It also signified inadequate effort by the Ministry of Public Service to have all agencies of Government enrolled on the system. Adequate training of entities’ staff seems to be lacking. Non-enrolment on the IPPS and HCM systems implied that staff data and payroll are not integrated and centralised in the system. This made tracking of the payments to staff across the Government difficult and it presents an opportunity for inclusion of ghosts on the payroll. We recommend, therefore, that entities: i) Should liaise with the Ministry of Public Service to pursue enrolment on the IPPS/ HCM; and ii) Always submit comprehensive annual wage estimates and recruitment plans to the Ministry of Public Service to aid appropriate planning for the entities by the ministry at a centralised level. On unsupported budget outputs, the committee noted that several entities lacked individual costed output budgets during the period under review. These include the Electricity Regulatory Authority, Local Government Finance Commission, and Kampala Capital City Authority, among others. Under the Local Government Finance Commission alone, a total of five outputs, costing Shs 2.788 billion, did not have a costing plan on the programme-based system (PBS). The justification given was that there was a challenge in the programme-based budgeting system that could not allow for individual costing of outputs. However, the committee established that the Accountant-General had upgraded and updated the system to support individual activity/output costing, although, at the time of the audit, they could not print, a shortcoming which was later rectified. Currently, the system is updated to ensure that even printing of entity-specific information is possible. The committee, therefore, observes that the excuse of the system failure to generate individual costing for individual output/items should not arise in the face of an upgraded and updated system. We recommend that, going forward, each accounting officer should ensure that individual costing for items and outputs are readily generated and available to audit, as they are required. Accumulation of domestic arrears/long- standing payables Madam Speaker, this is a matter of emphasis arising from yesterday’s presentation by the Committee on Public Accounts (Central

14919 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2024 Government). The committee observed that in some entities such as Uganda Human Rights Commission, there was no evidence to the effect that domestic arrears were budgeted for in the period under review. Secondly, the continued accumulation of domestic arrears poses a risk of litigation and nugatory expenditure. We recommend, therefore, that: (i) Accounting officers should ensure that verified domestic arrears are budgeted for; (ii) The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should avail adequate funds towards the settlement of domestic arrears; (iii) The accounting officers should immediately settle domestic arrears since they take the first call on the budget; (iv) The management of entities should put in place strong internal controls to prevent future accumulation of arrears; and (v) The accounting officer should always adhere to policy and technical guidance to facilitate accurate reporting. Madam Speaker, I want to thank my MP, Hon. Naluyima, for giving me a glass of water. (Laughter) Unimplemented procurements The committee observes that, for example, UBOS had many activities falling behind schedule, attributed to delayed funding. The continued reprioritisation or rollover of activities in the subsequent financial year results in clogging of the work plan and may potentially lead to the recurrence of delayed implementation, hence delayed service delivery. The committee recommends that accounting officers should ensure that the procurements are followed through and implemented in the subsequent financial year as promised, so as not to derail the overall intended objective. On the change of accounting system, the committee observes that the accounting policy of treatment for non-current assets only commenced in the Financial Year 2022/2023 and, therefore, made it difficult for the accounting officers to have comparative figures for the year before. The committee further observes that there was insufficient preparation and training before implementation/immigration to the new accounting system, and recommends as follows: i. The Accountant-General undertakes sufficient training to accounting officers on the new accounting system and any subsequent changes; ii. Going forward, all entities should commence implementation of the new accounting policy; and iii. All entities should ensure that Government assets are revalued and stated in the financial statements at their correct values, which should be depreciated over their useful life in accordance with the accounting system. Specific obligations Kampala Capital City Authority The failure to operationalise the 2019 Outdoor Advertising Ordinance We observe as follows: (i) In the absence of an enabling law, the authority is constrained to enforce the tax payment from outdoor advertisements, as it would contravene Article 151 of the Constitution; (ii) The failure to develop and approve regulations on outdoor advertising rates had led to the loss of revenue that would have been collected and used to deliver services to the citizens;

14920 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT (iii) The Attorney-General has been slow in fast-tracking the finalisation of the advertisement ordinance; (iv) The unique status of Kampala as a district and a city, whose operations extend to the metropolitan areas, poses a challenge of who approves the regulations amongst the Attorney-General, the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, and the Minister of Local Government. We recommend that the Attorney-General should expeditiously handle the approval process of the Outdoor Advertisement Ordinance to facilitate revenue collection from outdoor adverts. Collection of property rates i. The committee observes that the delay in collecting the assessed property rates denies the authority potential revenue that could be used to implement critical planned activities; ii. The growth of property rate arrears is partly attributed to the regular property revaluations, which may be unrealistic; and iii. The property rates tax and rental tax had a lot in common and present a potential double taxation scenario to the citizens. Recommendation We recommend as follows: (i) KCCA management should develop an effective system and timely invoicing and debt recovery; (ii) KCCA should conduct realistic property rate re-evaluations to minimise resistance and defaults arising from discontent among the property owners; (iii) The Attorney-General should reconsider merging both the property rates and the rental tax to avoid scenarios of double taxation; and (iv) The authority should consider other revenue collection incentives, such as waiving interests and penalties, to motivate and enable property owners to settle their outstanding arrears. Parish Development Model (PDM) Madam Speaker, the committee observes, on page 18, that KCCA’s supervision is mainly on policy issues. Warrants are issued directly to the constituted SACCOs, which receive the funds in their groups, thereby minimising supervision on the side of the authority. Secondly, the absence of an enabling legal and policy framework affects the efficiency of execution of the PDM concept. Recommendations i. Management should provide adequate technical guidance and support to SACCOs benefiting from PDM funding to prepare adequately to facilitate disbursements and implementation of activities; ii. The accounting officer should follow up the matter in court and, once it is resolved, the SACCOs should be funded; and iii. The Government should expeditiously, and in any case not more than six months from the time of adoption of this report, table a legislation and policy to govern the management and accountability for PDM funds and provide for related matters. Utilisation of Parish Revolving Funds (PRF) i. The committee observes that the delay in the disbursement of funds to SACCOs has a ripple effect of subsequent delay by the SACCOs in disbursing the funds to the different enterprise groups; and ii. The delayed conveyance of funds to the beneficiaries and households denies

14921 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2024 citizens timely access to funds and may affect the achievement of the program objectives. Recommendation We recommend, therefore, that: i. The management of PDM funds should be placed clearly in the KCCA organogram for efficient management; ii. KCCA conducts timely and adequate sensitisation with a view of ensuring that all funds disbursed to the SACCOs are utilised as planned; and iii. Offenders who abuse funds should be brought to book in a timely manner. Functionality of the Ward Development Committees (WDC) Madam Speaker, we observe that the failure to fund the Ward Development Committees ultimately leads to failure to mobilise the community, identify development priorities and monitor resource utilisation, thus undermining the attainment of the intended PDM objectives. Recommendation The committee recommends that the management of KCCA should ensure that the WDC is funded as soon as possible to enable the mobilisation of the community, identification of development priorities, and monitoring of resource utilisation. Misclassification of Salary Payments Madam Speaker, the committee observed that misclassification of funds misstates wage expenditure in the financial statements and creates arrears on wages. It also implies poor budget discipline. The committee further noted that there was no retirement/ manpower planning for the replacement of the retiring and other exiting staff, as the retiring staff are not immediately replaced. The committee recommends as follows: i. That management should engage the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and ensure that going forward, the authorities are allowed to reallocate these funds to the appropriate salary codes; and ii. The authorities should also liaise with the Ministry of Public Service and the Public Service Commission to ensure that the temporary staff are recruited by Financial Year 2025/2026 on a permanent basis to minimise misallocations. Court Awards and Compensation Madam Speaker, we observed that the failure to adequately budget for and or provide for legal costs may result in the accumulation of arrears leading to litigation and attendant costs, that is, garnishees, fines, and penalties. The committee further recognised that the Authority listed Contingent Liability on page 59 of the Financial Statements. Recommendations The committee recommends that: i. Management should develop measures geared towards ensuring that continued escalation of the court awards against the Authority is curtailed; ii. Going forward, management should integrate court awards/ litigation costs in the Authority’s budget as guided by the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury(PS/ST) in his letter dated 27 August 2021, regarding the payment of the decretal amount in civil suit No. 353 of 2O18: St. Balikuddembe Market Stores and lock-up Shops versus Kampala Capital City Authority; and iii. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) should be adequately supervised to ensure that money is not wantonly spent.

14922 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT Delayed settlement of Court awards and Compensation The committee observed that the delays in compensation affected parties’ results in further accumulation of interest and deny the timely delivery of services. The committee recommends that KCCA Management should ensure prompt settlement of court awards and compensations. This is subject to adequate releases. Management of the Landfill at Kiteezi Madam Speaker, permit me to emphasise this because of the importance of this matter; to re- give a small background as presented here. Kampala Capital City Authority, through the Directorate of Public Health and Environment Directorate (PH&ED) is mandated to facilitate and provide support for ensuring the health and productivity of citizens, and a clean, habitable and sustainable community for the city. The Directorate guides the Authority in efficiently managing public health and the environment. In a bid to fulfil this mandate, in 1996 the Authority established and operationalised the Kiteezi Landfill as a facility that handles waste from Kampala and its neighbouring municipalities of Nansana, Kiira, and Kasangati town councils. The Auditor-General inspected the landfill on 5 December 2023 and observed the following: i. The landfill was overfilled with waste, rendering it hazardous to public health within the surrounding community; ii. The Auditor-General established that some of the equipment/structures such as the weighbridge and water treatment plant, were non-functional, and there was no buffer zone at the landfill to protect the neighbouring communities; iii. The garbage collectors did not have protective gear such as hand gloves and masks, which posed a health risk to them as depicted in the picture that we present in the report; and iv. The Auditor-General noted further that the landfill in its current form, is both an environmental and health risk to the community around and portrays the Authority in bad light. The Accounting Officer explained to the Auditor-General that Kiteezi Landfill was almost at 1OO per cent capacity and KCCA purchased land (135 acres) for a new waste treatment facility in 2016 and the plan was to establish a modern waste-to-energy facility plant at the new site when funding is availed. In the meantime, the capacity of Kiteezi was being expanded to accommodate an additional four acres and the Authority has built a leachate drainage around the landfill, which was originally blocked by the local community through encroachment. In addition, the maintenance of the equipment and structure at the landfill is inadequate because of low funding. However, KCCA has a prospective investor willing to fast-track the resolution of the problem. A feasibility study to inform sustainable city waste management was ready by 2015. Non-renewal of the operating license of Kiteezi Landfill by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Madam Speaker, the committee was informed that Kiteezi Landfill had been in operation since 1996, and by 2013, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) declined to renew the landfill’s operating license full design capacity. The landfill use was continued since there was no alternative waste disposal plan. This decision prevented a would-be citywide public health crisis arising from unmanaged waste accumulation in the city. As such, since 2013, Kiteezi has been operating in crisis mode. The committee shall revert to this.

14923 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2024 Unimplemented decommissioning of Kiteezi Landfill The committee further established that KCCA worked with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank, which provided technical support to the Kampala Solid Waste Management by way of a Public- Private Partnership (PPP), to commence the Kiteezi Landfill-decommissioning journey in 2014. As part of the implementation of this plan, KCCA acquired 135 acres of land in Ddundu, Mukono, to establish a new landfill, thereby decommissioning Kiteezi. However, the plan was never implemented due to stiff opposition from the area residents. The above forced continued operation of Kiteezi, despite its adjusted inability to accommodate more garbage due to no alternative site and lack of budget provision for a new site, thereby stretching the site further. Information was obtained from KCCA Lord Mayor, which indicated that the processes of decommissioning Kiteezi Dumpsite were commenced with a study conducted by MS Queensland and Leeds Consulting Engineers in association with Air Water Earth (AWE) and a report thereof was published in October 2021, wherein they raised a red flag regarding the impending catastrophe at Kiteezi. They recommended the immediate decommissioning of Kiteezi and provided an elaborate mechanism and procedures for execution of the same, advising that the dumpsite should be closed within two years of the release of the report, that is by October 2023, to avert the calamity. I have been advised that the dumpsite in Luo is called Odur . Lack of budgetary support to decommission – (Interjection) - of course, he cannot argue because he is my son and I know more Luo than him. Do you want to correct your –

14927 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2024 of the Authority is inconsistent with any other hypothesis other than gross negligence on the part of the Executive Director, who, a year earlier, had stated the same to have exceeded its design capacity. Indeed, it is no wonder that on the 10th day of August 2024, a total of 20 out of 39 acres of waste at the landfill gave way, spilling beyond its buffer zone into the surrounding neighbourhood, destroying lives, property, and infrastructure. (iii) The Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury (PS/ST), upon receipt of the cry from the Executive Director, kept quiet. (iv) The Minister of Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs who was copied in the same letter, took no action, not even a visit to the facility to ascertain its state. She never raised the matter in Cabinet and never followed up with the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development – (Interjections)- if colleagues have read, we had an interface with the Minister. I hope it offers an opportunity for people to comprehend - not even a visit to the facility to ascertain its state. She never raised the matter in Cabinet and never followed up with the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Clearly, this was gross neglect of duty by the honourable minister. An alternative would have been arranged, like the current arrangement of depositing the garbage in other places and the acquisition of alternative places, the Minister and PS/ ST cannot escape liability for what befell the country. (v) It has become a practice by civil servants excluding the political leadership in both financial and administrative matters. Why, for example, would the technical staff handle this matter without involving the Prime Minister, the finance minister, and the Lord Mayor of Kampala? (vi) Whereas the Accounting Officer explained that a prospective investor was found, no concrete steps were taken to seal the discussion to a logical conclusion. Indeed, there was no public search for potential investors or partners in the sector which would have averted what had turned out to be a human catastrophe in addition to other economic advantages the site would have generated. Lack of transparency in the search for prospective investors punctuated with disregard for Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets (PPDA) rules, but seeking to get investors behind closed doors, slowed down the process. The minister informed the committee that whenever she sent potential investors to the technical team, they would never get back to her. Indeed, the whole process was flawed, opaque, and irregularly executed to great imperfection. (vii) As stated above, for a long period, the Government has been reluctant to respond to KCCA’s pleas for resources to establish a modern plant and equipment leading to over-utilisation of the Kiteezi Landfill beyond its design capacity. This is made worse by the non-responsiveness of the PS/ST to the Authorities’ appeal requesting budgetary support for solid waste management interventions in Kampala, vide a letter dated 20 June 2023. This non-responsiveness was an affront to the efforts of the Authority to implement the Presidential Executive Order No. 2 of 2023, dated 9 April 2023, where he directed that all urban Authorities’ waste be properly disposed of and is inexcusable. A review of the entity’s ministerial policy statement for the financial years 2019/2020, 2020/2021, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023 showed that requests for adequate funds to address the problem of waste management in Kiteezi and Kampala in general had not been honoured, hence leaving the issue as recurring unfunded priority.

14928 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT By continuously ignoring calls to allocate adequate funds to facilitate a sustainable response to waste management, KCCA was rendered unable to implement a sustainable response to waste management strategy for the city and the metropolitan area. Land at Ddundu-Mokono In the absence of funds for the development of a modern waste management facility at the site in Kiteezi, the authority would probably - and, under normal circumstances be left with the option to utilise its 135 acres of the landfill at Dundu for dumping waste as a temporary remedial intervention. The committee visited the said land and interfaced with the area residents. They informed the committee that they have petitioned the court over any threat of waste dumping activity on Ddundu land, citing fears that the place will most likely become like Kiteezi in the future. A copy of the Notice of Motion, Miscellaneous Application No. 01 of 2023 under Article 50 of the Constitution is attached. It is not clear why, since December 2023, when the amended notice was filed, it has not been determined. The summary of the claim is that it is an enforcement of the right to a safe and healthy environment. Related to the above, the events at Kiteezi leading to the loss of lives and property was a direct proximate negligence to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director, Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs and Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. The committee observes that: i. In the absence of any viable alternative to Kiteezi, the authority resorted to compressing the garbage to decrease its looming pile in the face of failed decommissioning;

Madam Speaker, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) should send out calls for investment in waste management, including but not limited to compositing infrastructure and modern incineration/waste recycling facilities at its two sites, namely; Kiteezi and Ddundu, in addition to any other modern waste management undertaking.

14938 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT 3.6.12 Management of Road Toll Facilities Along Kampala-Entebbe Expressway. We observed as follows: a) Failure to procure, install, and maintain lighting and independent traffic monitoring system. One, there was failure to procure, install, and properly maintain lighting and an independent traffic monitoring system. b) There was a breach of contract obligation on the part of the operator or contractor and poor contract management by UNRA. c) Three, a big part of the expressway was not well lit which poses a risk to the road users discourages traffic and in the long run affects toll collections. d) Without an independent traffic monitoring system UNRA can therefore not independently verify that the revenue collections by the operator are accurate and complete. Hence a risk of under- declaration of revenue by the service provider. e) We strongly believe that the continuous vandalisation and theft of equipment that supports lighting and other interventions implies that UNRA did not seriously consider or integrate implementing the mindset change program of the National Development Plan, NDP III in communities where the projects are implemented to reap dividends of community ownership and project property. The committee recommends that: i) Management should follow up with the Operator to ensure that required deliverables stipulated in the contract are provided or else management considers terminating the contract for fundamental breach of contract. UNRA should embrace and implement mindset programme to facilitate communities to own projects and infrastructure in their respective communities. 1.1.13 Failure to provide Road safety facilities i. UNRA should embrace and implement mindset change programs to facilitate communities to own projects and infrastructure in the respective communities. ii. Failure to provide road safety facilities, we observe that there is a risk of accidents in case road users encounter crossing animals on the road. This can also lead to criminal intruders accessing the expressway. Recommendations i. UNRA institutes measures to recover damages arising out of a breach of contract by the contractor. ii. Institute security measures to ensure that road safety facilities are not vandalised again. This can be done by encouraging whistle-blowers who should be remunerated and also name and shame companies that eventually buy stolen road items. iii. Explore the use of the internal security organisation structures and the punitive measures taken against perpetrators. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) Madam Speaker, by way of a disclaimer, we want to state that the issues of the census were not part of our report. They did not come to our interrogation, maybe in future, so they are not contained in here. We observed on staff drawing more than one salary that the staff were deployed and validated in other Government agencies while at the same time under employment of UBOS. The Bureau had taken the appropriate steps to exercise disciplinary control over the affected

Honourable members, I now put the question that the report of the Public Accounts Committee - that is, Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises on the report of Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for the year ending 30 June 2023, for the following entities: Kampala City Council Authority, the National Environment Management Authority, Uganda National Roads Authority, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Uganda AIDS Commission, Uganda Property Holdings Limited, Electricity Regulatory Authority, Uganda Human Rights Commission, Local Government Finance Commission, Financial Intelligence Authority, National Enterprise Corporation, National Children’s Authority and Capital Markets Authority be adopted by this august House with amendments. (Question put and agreed to.)

14851 Wednesday, 16 October 2024 1. Hon. Faith Nakut Loru, Woman Representative, Napak as the Chairperson; 2. Hon. Moses Aleper, Chekwii County, Kadam as a member; 3. Hon. Herbert Tayebwa as a member; 4. Hon. Xavier Kyooma of Ibanda County North as a member; 5. Hon. Elijah Dickens Mushemeza, Sheema County South as a member and; 6. Hon. Karim Masaba, Industrial Division, Mbale City as a member. The committee will be guided by the following terms of reverence: 1. Assess the performance trends of sales revenue for the last five years from all sources; 2. Identify the circumstances under which UPL opted for an overdraft facility to finance its operations for the Financial Years 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 and who approved it; 3. Explore the procedures used by UPL management in the debt write-offs that grew by 149 per cent in the Financial Year 2022/2023 and whether they have a bad- debt policy in place; 4. Evaluate UPL liquidity management processes and procedures to ensure adequate financial health of the company; 5. Provide a genesis of the emergence of receivables that amounted to Shs 18.4 billion in the Financial Year 2022/2023; IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 27TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 1.58 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

On that particular matter, you know, this Teachers’ Bill affects a number of people in the countryside, and their input is very important in helping us decide how to move. Therefore, I invite you to direct the committee to ensure this public engagement is not just for Kampala. The people in Maracha should be able to know that something like this is happening and so we need an engagement of people in Karamojong and others. Thank you.

Thank you. The teachers are here. In the public gallery this afternoon, we have teachers and pupils from Dinadoma Preparatory School in Rubaga Division, Kampala North. They are represented by Hon. Kawalya Abubaker and Hon. Malende. Still in the public gallery this afternoon, we have teachers and pupils from HHH Junior School in Kiwatule. That is where the Leader of the Opposition (LOP) comes from. They are represented by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ssenyonyi. Hon. Ssenyonyi and Hon. Malende, do you want to greet your children? Thank you. He is representing them well, that is why he is a LOP.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. This one is Hon. Alan Mayanja and I am Alan Ssewanyana, so, “A” first. (Laughter) You are coming next, my younger brother. I thank the Minister of Education and Sports for giving us a good statement. As the people of Kampala, we are very grateful that this year’s belated ceremony is going to be in Kampala, at Lugogo Cricket Oval. Honourable minister, we have had very many issues, even in Kampala here, which people do not expect to be in the capital city, especially the issue of the staff-quarters being very limited. I have an example of police children in a school here in Kampala where the staff do not have houses to reside in. It is only a few, especially those who have relatives in the police quarters that have good accommodation, at least affordable accommodation. Others are lacking. It has now become a burden to us as Members of Parliament to continue explaining to them as to when and why they do not have such quarters. Secondly, Madam Speaker, the new Teachers’ Bill, which is being discussed by Parliament here, gave a proposal of a minimum qualification of a bachelor’s degree for a teacher. Today, we are celebrating teachers who are yet to reach that level. I think on this day, most of them are yet to reach that level. I think when celebrating it, next Saturday, the Government should at least put more confidence in the current teachers because they have done so much work for us as a country during the past few years -

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. We also had our Teachers’ Day, some time back in Bukwo District. However, it was the worst Teachers’ Day attended by teachers in the life of Bukwo. Why? Because most of our teachers are so demoralised. Honourable colleagues have talked of the discrimination between the science teachers and the arts teachers. But there was also another issue during the validation exercise by the Auditor-General, so many people were affected in Bukwo District and over 250 teachers were affected. They have been coming to Kampala to make clearance with the Auditor-General. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and his team have been coming, but all the same, up to now, those people have not been paid. It is my opinion that the minister gets concerned and sees how best these teachers can be helped because most of them are not being paid. They have children to educate. They have other issues to handle, like any other human being or parent. So, these people need to be helped, Madam Speaker. Thank you very much.

Therefore, the Budget Committee was spot on in saying that the money you want is excess and you will not spend it, let us utilise it. But at the end of the financial year, they had not done the needful and you know the crisis and dust this raised in this financial year because I am privy to what happened. While meeting the committee, the Accounting Officer admitted to this under-absorption and attributed it to initial budget cuts by Parliament during appropriation. However, further attributed it to cash flow constraints and non-conclusion of some anticipated projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Kampala Expressway which

Honourable members, I would like to remind you that tomorrow, Wednesday, 16 th – it is good Hon. Ssolo is here to remind us. We will be hosting the Anti- Counterfeit Expo. The exhibition will be in the parliamentary parking, commencing at 10.00 a.m. I would like to urge all of you to go and see what is there, especially when you have counterfeits, and you know what counterfeits do to our community. They affect the community, both health-wise and economically but in our legislation. I am requesting that you pass by and check what will be there at 10.00 a.m. tomorrow. Thank you. In the public gallery this afternoon, we have pupils and teachers of Namagunga Boarding Primary School, Kitende. They are from Busiro South, Wakiso – please stand up, you are very smart. They are represented by Hon. Ethel Naluyima Betty. Hon. Ethel is still busy working in the office and doing work for you, sister. Hon. Ethel is a very good girl and Hon. Charles Matovu whom the Leader of the Opposition has deployed to do some work for him. You have very good leaders. Sister, thank you for coming. Please join me in receiving them. Thank you and have a seat. (Applause) In the public gallery this afternoon, we have pupils and teachers from Nabumali Boarding Primary School, Bungokho Central - all the IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 26TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 2.01 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise on an urgent matter of national importance concerning the state of Kampala- Jinja Highway. This road is a major route for trade in the country -

However, it has been left in an appalling state with a lot of sections having with potholes. I am also concerned, Madam Speaker, that the maintenance works on sections of the road between Nakawa to Mukono have taken very many years. The works started around Bweyogerere, Mukono during COVID-19 in 2020, but up to today, the works are still going on. My prayers, Madam Speaker, are that: 1. The Minister of Works and Transport ensures that there is a quick response on the maintenance of the road, especially covering the potholes along the road; and 2. The minister updates the House on the maintenance plan for the Kampala-Jinja Highway and the status of the maintenance works on the road between Nakawa and Mukono.

Rt Hon. Prime Minister, on the issue of the road, you could also tell us what happened to the Kampala-Jinja Express Highway.

Hon. Ssemujju, I do not know whether it is talking about the chief executive of the country that gives you votes, and if that is what it does, then there is a problem in this country. As far as we know and we see our President is leading us very well and he is not old. What has he failed to do? Honourable members, in the VIP gallery this afternoon, we have a delegation of members of staff from the Parliament of Ghana. They include Ms Evelyn Brefo, Assistant Deputy Clerk Parliamentary Proceedings Division; you are most welcome. Ms Sheba Nana is a Senior Principal Assistant Clerk. You are most welcome to the Parliament of Uganda. Please join me in welcoming them. In the public gallery this afternoon, we have students and teachers from Bweyogerere Secondary School from Kira Municipality, Wakiso District; you are most welcome. They are represented by a very good Member of Parliament who loves President Museveni, Hon. Ssemujju Ibrahim Nganda and Hon. Ethel Naluyima. Hon. Ssemujju there, is an Al hajji and is a very good person. In the public gallery also this afternoon, we have students of Makerere University School of Social Works and Social Administration from Kampala Central, Kampala District. They are represented by Hon. Nsereko Muhammad, where is Meddie? Meddie is a very good legislator - he has gone for prayers and Hon. Malende who is also working. She has also gone to pray. Honourable members, we had an item that was pending for Hon. Ecweru. Can you repeat your question? Let us be orderly.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The matter was about the state of the Kampala-Jinja Highway. It is filled with a lot of potholes, and where they have tried to do maintenance between Nakawa and Mukono, the works have taken so many years. I do not know how long it takes to do that section of the road, Madam Speaker. My prayers are that the minister updates the House on the maintenance works between Nakawa and Mukono, and on the maintenance plan of the Kampala-Jinja Highway. May he also quickly respond by carrying out emergency works on the road by covering the potholes to allow a motorable state. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you. Still on that, you need to give us feedback on the Kampala-Jinja Expressway that was funded. We do not know how far it has gone. Hon. Denes, is it still on roads? I am only taking submissions on roads.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. They began working on Mityana- Kampala road, within Mityana Municipality in 2020. Up to date, they are still constructing that road – (Interjection) – yes.

Kampala-Mityana?

Kampala-Mityana-Mubende Road, but within Mityana Municipality. We wonder when they will conclude that road because it is too dusty and it has caused many accidents. Please work on it and tell us when you will finish it.

Madam Speaker, first of all, I start with an apology for coming a bit late. As you know, today the Committee on Physical Infrastructure was sitting and my senior colleague is out of the country. I am the one holding the fort. So, I had to go and explain a few things to the committee. I am happy that finally I am here. On the onset, we do acknowledge as a ministry that the state of roads across the country, especially very critical roads that link communities and link the country to other parts need urgent attention. And again, in that background, I think I can have the permission on behalf of my senior colleagues to reveal to this Parliament that my ministry has been directed by Cabinet to take a list of all those roads that have not been done and are mentioned in the manifesto of the His Excellency, the President. Initially, the thinking of the Government was that because we did not want to balloon the debt, we would have to go slow, particularly in bringing in new projects. However, on critical analysis, the Cabinet yesterday decided that on Monday we take a list of those roads - those friends and comrades who were recently privileged to sit in the meeting where His Excellency the President made a presentation. They will clearly remember the number of roads that actually the President mentioned and he repeated them yesterday, Therefore, he wants me to take those roads - they are not few, present to him and indicate the difficulties that have been encountered in implementing some of his directives and the directives of this Parliament. For example, if Parliament had said, “We have passed a Bill for Kampala-Jinja Expressway,” and it is true that a loan has been passed but there seems to have been a challenge in finding resources for compensating perhaps the people who are supposed to be affected by this project, we must indicate that. So that Cabinet will pronounce itself on Monday, and after I will come again to fill this Parliament in on what we have discussed and resolved and I can assure you comrades, the thinking that I saw yesterday is that Cabinet is going to make a decision and get resources that will fix these roads once and for all - (Interjections)- we are a Government, that is why we are here. I am also aware that again the directive that we were given yesterday was that when we are making this presentation, what has been lacking so much is money for maintenance. We have done close to 6000 kilometres now but we have not put enough resources for the maintenance of these roads. So, a directive was given that when we are coming to Cabinet we must also provide for that so that the Cabinet COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR [Mr Ndeezi]

Madam Speaker, and my dear colleagues, we are aware of what is taking place. We are aware. A few days ago, we debated that question. One of the officers decided to take a role that is not theirs. We are investigating and I can assure you that, that officer will be brought back to Kampala as quickly as possible. Well, I cannot - because I cannot force a foreign country. Well - (Interjection) - no, I will not be able to divulge this, because an investigation is going on. So, when the investigations have been concluded, then we shall know what happened. But as for removing the officer, it is something that we are working on so that he can come back to Uganda.

14755 Monday, 14 October 2024 all the leaders of this country well, including yourselves; you are leaders- you cannot even clap for yourselves? (Applause) Thank you. Honourable members, I have received com - plaints from several women who have written to my office about the issues of Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project. They are wondering whether GROW is meant to benefit the women on Kampala Road or women out - side there. The leaders are saying they do not have the regulations yet. They want you to share with them the regulations and then give us an account of who the beneficiaries of GROW are. Therefore, I would like to ask the minister to come and give this House a report on GROW. (Applause) Yes, Hon. Avur.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. You are spot on, and I would like to commend you for being a good and listening leader to the women of this country. Madam Speaker, I agree with you that not only from my district, Pakwach - I have consulted several women leaders here. The GROW project is intended to benefit women entrepreneurs of all classes, including those who already have ongoing businesses. However, most women have complained that when they go to the banks where these funds have been directed, they are asked for IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 25TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.58 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14778 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT The company profit before tax was higher by Shs 1.67 billion and the reasons are very clear. Debt write-off, non-payment of taxes. I think we were talking about a management crisis in the agency. I would like to disagree, respectfully with my brother who said, “They should have been rationalised.” No, these agencies are set up for a reason, to employ people and that is why I disagree sometimes with Government’s rationalisation of agencies on account of mismanagement. However, if it is on account of this management, simply scrap up management. If people are handpicked from Kampala Road to offices, you get this. Can we get an understanding of how this came to be, that people are happy not to perform, not to pay taxes and then they say, “We are making a profit, and we hid away from taxes?” I think it is a serious management crisis and the House should have the strength to recommend a serious follow-up on the nature of management and how they are going about their work. In the Financial Year 2021/2022, there was a crisis on the budget of UPL. Parliament had declined to give them money because of failure to pay former employees yet there was provision every financial year. These issues must be interrogated, so that we can help the country, not simply wishing away the agency. It is very useful but it is facing a management crisis. Thank you.

Thank you. Kampala representative?

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for this opportunity. I would like to thank the committee vice-chairperson and the entire committee for the report. I bring you greetings from the people of Kampala that I represent. My submission is basically on the issue of a breach of statutory duty. We have realised from the report that the entity is not obliging or keeping up to date by paying and remitting to the NSSF, Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and such other levies. This creates a lot of legal implications that can come with a lot of repercussions and more financial costs and implications –

That is okay. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 24TH SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.59 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. MR MOSES ALEPER (NRM, Chekwii County (Kadam), Nakapiripirit): Thank you, Madam Speaker. I stand here to raise a matter of national importance and a very urgent one as such. This concerns the authority of the Minister of Water and Environment, Hon. Sam Cheptoris, authorising an investor in the name of the International University of East Africa (IUEA) to ferry charcoal from Acherer in Nakapiripirit District to Kampala. This practice followed letters and directives to the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC) of Nakapiripirit vide letters dated 27 September 2023 and 9 April 2024 which were guidelines concerning the clearance of symbiotic burning of charcoal and a directive to the DRDC to allow IUEA to transport over 700 bags of charcoal from Acherer in Nakapiripirit to Kampala. However, the Resident District Commissioner of Nakapiripirit, in his letter to the minister dated 27 September - (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Today, I led a delegation of Members from the presidential affairs committee to the place. I had the pleasure of meeting with the Acting Executive Director (ED), Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and some staff from the Prime Minister’s office. One of the most disturbing issues that I saw – a bit very unfortunate – is that these people have been herded into three small tents. These tents are extremely hot. They asked me: “Chairperson, kindly, go into the oven and stay there for about five minutes.” Of course, I could not. It was very unfortunate. The women stay alone, the men stay in another tent and the other one is for the mothers. It is sad. I thought that maybe before we even do all those issues, can’t we at least get about 230 tents? It is not asking much from the Government. This is so that each family, at least, gets a separate tent. It is a little bit inhuman for the time being.

Madam Speaker, there are some things which need urgent attention, like the one I am going to say. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 23RD SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 1.58 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Speaker, Ms Anita Among, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14658 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras that were not provided by the landlord. Institute measures to ensure that the landlord fulfils the conditions of the tenants agreement within three months of the adoption of this report. Madam Speaker, on the issue of the missing land titles, we made an observation on page 25 and recommended that the accounting officer’s efforts – First, we commended the accounting officer’s effort in securing the property by lodging caveat and commencing the process of obtaining the title. Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) land office should expedite the process of issuing the special certificate of title within one month from the date of adoption of this report and provide a report to that effect to Parliament. Madam Speaker, on failure to comply with the complaint investigation/hearing timelines, the committee observes on page 26 and makes the recommendation as follows: (i) That the commission should liaise with the Ministry of Public Service to ensure the expeditious recruitment of staff and replacement of existing staff, to be conducted within this financial year. (ii) Establish a robust complaint management system through expansion of technological tools to ease registration, tracking and management of the complaints on a first- in, first-out basis. On unsupported performance of complaints handling, Madam Speaker, we made observations and recommended at page 27 that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should allocate sufficient funds over the next two audit years to ensure full renovation and expansion of the commission property in Bugolobi to prevent further expenditure on rent. In conclusion, it is the humble request of the committee that this Parliament finds pleasure in adopting our observations and recommendations in this report. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am also persuaded to make mention of how much was being paid by this commission to come to Kingdom Kampala – Shs 2.5 billion, annually, in terms of rentals. The report was not explicit on the extent or longevity of the lease agreement – how long they have been there or how long they are going to be there. However, if you compute that amount of money for the 2003 square meters, it is a lot of money causing, a cost on our public fund and the Consolidated Fund. Madam Speaker, I am also in agreement with the committee report; we need to fast-track refurbishing the premises of this Commission and increasing its working space so that we can cut down on this expenditure that could be diverted to benefit other sectors of our country. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The report revealed that on the missing title, the agency has found it difficult even to access a special title. Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is a Government entity and the office of the Uganda Land Commission is in KCCA. I am surprised that even with another Government entity, there are constraints in accessing a title.

The playing grounds. Now, here we are - You have seen the Uganda Land Commission - the land title was there but it is missing. And those seated there; the accounting officers have kept a low profile by giving explanations up to the report of COSASE. Therefore, if we could achieve that and get an update – a number of schools in Kampala, Jinja and elsewhere, are going to lose land because the Uganda Land Commission has refused to issue land titles but whenever people come to take up that land, they give letters of no objection. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you so much. I know it is a very important item and what you are discussing is equally important. However, we only deferred this because of the absence of the minister. We did call the minister to be in the House but she said she will only be in Kampala on Monday. Therefore, I am wondering whether you wanted the minister of - which minister – [Hon. Namugga: “In this Government, there are three ministers. We cannot wait for a minister.”] Let us get the minister to respond to that, but at the same time, we are also going to call and make sure this issue is handled, and then we discuss it. We will handle it on Wednesday, but after this, I am going to call National Medical Stores. Who is the chairperson of the Committee on Health? HONOURABLE MEMBERS: The vice- chairperson is here.

14680 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT financial statements at their correct values, which should be depreciated over their useful life in accordance with the accounting systems. Madam Speaker, I am happy that the people of Busiro twinned us and I am being assisted by honourable. On receivables of Shs 21.42 billion, we make observations on page 15 and recommend that the accounting officer should ensure that strict measures are instituted to collect all outstanding receivables without any excuses. On outstanding payables of Shs 1.90 billion, we make observations and recommend, on page 16, that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should ensure that sufficient budget provisions are made for outstanding payables to enable their full settlement. On delayed revaluation of the authority’s land measuring 27,877 acres, we observe on page 17 and recommend that the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development should provide the requisite funding to the authority to do land titling and regular the revaluation of its land to ensure accurate financial reporting and maximise the land’s potential for increased revenue generation. It is an issue that Parliament has pronounced itself on in a couple of seconds or microseconds ago. On the development of the infrastructure design and the building of Kampala industrial and business park, Namanve, Madam Speaker, we observed, on page 18, that there are delays in the implementation of the project. Based on the observations, we make the recommendation on page 19 as follows: (i) The accounting officer should expedite the completion of the project to avoid unnecessary cost overruns; (ii) The authority should improve on project planning, management, and oversight to ensure timely implementation in order to achieve the intended objectives of the programme; and (iii) The Government projects should enhance environmental protection and preservation by avoiding wetlands except in the clearest of cases based on absolute necessity. On cumulative achievement of project activities, the committee makes observations on page 20 and recommendations thereon that the accounting officers should ensure that before starting projects, proper coordination between stakeholders like NEMA, UMEME, NWSC, NITA-U, etc, is undertaken to harmonise the designs and avoid challenges of rejection of some sites that cause delays in project completion and service delivery to the beneficiaries. On absorption of funds under the KIBP- Namanve Project, we observe on page 21 and recommend as follows: (i) That the accounting officer should institute robust monitoring and evaluation of the new interventions meant to ensure that the project activities are completed at the right time with quality and minimal cost to realise its intended project objectives; and (ii) The authority should improve its financial planning and management, streamline bureaucratic processes, and ensure timely and effective implementation of the funded projects. On the delivery of services from implemented activities, we made an analysis from pages 21 to 22 and also observations on page 22 with the attendant recommendation that this being a minimal and well-explained query, it should be dropped. On the status of Uganda Investment Authority land utilisation, we make an analysis on pages 22, 23-24 and observe on page 24 with recommendations that: (i) Uganda Investment Authority should develop and implement inclusive land use plans that consider the needs and

Mr Speaker, I got information and I remember informing Parliament sometime back that the Global Women Power based at the UN or New York, identified me as one of the inspirational leaders. (Applause) Mr Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to humbly thank you for the support, as the Parliament of Uganda, and also use this opportunity to thank the President of the Republic of Uganda for appointing me in this position, and also appointing me through my various positions in my career. Mr Speaker, the Global Power Women Award was given to me on 26 th September 2024, in New York. We were attending a conference of the global women; a big conference of many women. It was given to 10 women. Among them were; two ministers, four first ladies, and me, the Prime Minister. (Applause) IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 22ND SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.21 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14629 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 1 OCTOBER 2024 I agree with the committee that we need to think about how Ugandans can contribute to their revenue. Apart from a few businesses, we are losing businesses. If you go downtown, you see people open, they rent, three or six months down the road, that business has closed. When you go back and look at the shops, you realise that this shop closed, and mostly it is related to tax. I think the committee is spot on to say we need to diversify. Finally, Mr Speaker, even our low-hanging fruits that URA should use - for instance, our systems are very slow. You keep hearing us talking about system failure. The system is not working. Even when a taxpayer wants to pay, it is difficult for a taxpayer to pay. Up to now, to acquire a TIN, you need a third party. If you go upcountry, these digital systems are not serving even those who want to pay. I think we need to make sure that the digital platforms that we use are user-friendly. Putting a container in downtown Kampala has helped to educate on Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoice Solution (EFRIS) and create not only awareness but also bring more people towards using that platform. Therefore, I agree with the committee, thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am here to present a petition, on behalf of the Uganda tea farmers, to the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, praying for Government intervention to deliver tea farmers out of a crisis. I will straight away go to the prayers because everything is embedded in here and I am going to lay the petition on the Table. Among the prayers that our farmers are presenting are: Fertiliser intervention The Government is requested to subsidise fertilizers for tea out growers by 75 per cent in the first session, followed by 50 percent in the second session and 25 per cent in the third session for a self-sustaining fertilizer financing mechanism. Product quality regulation for value enhancement Parliament is requested to direct the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) to develop an enforceable tea green leaf standard. This is the most impactful, practical, and affordable tea industry Government intervention implementable in a short-term period. Mr Speaker, the Government has been insisting that to get a tea policy, it should go under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 21ST SITTING - FIRST MEETING Parliament met at 2.18 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Mr Speaker, thank you very much. When we were being sworn in, we all made an undertaking to defend the Constitution and then we prayed. Article 208 of the Constitution, says: 1. “ There shall be armed forces to be known as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).” 2. “The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces shall be non-partisan, national in character, patriotic, professional, disciplined, productive and subordinate to the civilian authority as established under this Constitution.” Mr Speaker, this is mandatory. Therefore, I draw your attention and the attention of this House, to the utterances made by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who happens to be the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). First, that after his father’s presidency, no civilian will be a president in Uganda. But two - I hear people who are jeering – that as CDF, he has now endorsed the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Chairman for the next presidential elections. These two issues go against the core principles of this Constitution. The CDF, a military officer, is endorsing a candidate of a political party. Two, he is also issuing threats that no civilian will be President after his father. Therefore, the procedural issue I am raising, Mr Speaker, is whether the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs must not be asked to account for these statements. IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 19TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 2.16 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala . PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Mr Speaker, last week as I was driving from Gulu to Kampala, I saw the debate especially when my good friend Hon. Ssekikubo brought a serious issue here about the same – (Interjection) - you see, in my Luo accent, we do not have “S”, we do not have “Z”, okay? We do not have “X”. So, when a person from my sub-region say, “recharge” – (Interjections)- don’t mind. Because we do not have “S”, we do not have “H”, we do not have the what– So, that is okay. Therefore, when the matter was being discussed on the Floor here - unfortunately the presiding person is being disorganised. When the discussion was here, I was actually watching on my phone, what came very clearly is that you ruled on that day that, “On this matter, whoever is not satisfied with it should go to court.” I find that we are just moving in the same circle. I read a book, “ Who moved my cheese” ; and some of you who have not read it, please take the opportunity to read it. There are issues which you should not be relying on - the same issue all the time. Since you ruled on this matter, are we proceeding well to again discuss the same issue here? Mr Speaker, is it procedurally right?

14457 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 24 SEPTEMBER 2024 an incentive for the staff of the regional referral hospital. This building has stayed on - yet if you look at the building - I am sure - if not PAC, then the Committee on Health could have seen that it is left with a small percentage to be completed. It has been left there for about eight years without it being completed. This is very unfortunate. The biggest problem right now is with our transport. Karuma Bridge has been closed, yet we have hospital equipment, which we are supposed to use in Gulu Regional Referral Hospital to help our people better. There is also a CT Scan there but sometimes we have to bring our people up to Kampala because the CT Scan is not working. Why should we allow equipment that do not work to be taken to regional referral hospitals? We need to plan better to serve our people better. It is not only hospital equipment sometimes if you go to facilities like the mental health units or the mortuary, you will know that they are all wanting. We need to do better for our people; we must prioritise social services for them. Thank you.

14462 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT When we talk about obesity, for example, research says women in Kampala here are more obese than whatever. That is also – (Member timed out.)

Very good. I wanted her to be the one to correct it. Thank you. Honourable minister? IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 18TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 2.10 p.m. at Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS ( The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Thank you. (Members rose_) Now, honourable colleagues, please, matters of national importance. Hon. Katali - Hon. Christine Akello, we dealt with your issue the other day. I cannot keep repeating the same issue on the Floor. Road accidents, whether in Kampala or anywhere, is what we tackled. If we handle issues, let us not resume them again. Hon. Isaac Etuka?

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for granting me the opportunity to present this issue. There are persons registering and extorting money from people in Butebo District, purportedly as agents of the association of Teso war victims, with the promise that they are working on their forms to benefit from the Government compensation. My prayers are as follows: i. The responsible minister should come up with an explanation of the legality of these activities and save the people from such extortion; ii. The persons who are collecting the money from the public should be investigated and possibly the money be refunded; and iii. The Government should streamline and strengthen its responsiveness in regard to such activities. I emphasise prayer number three because it has been a habit for people to come to that side of the district and extort money. A few years ago, somebody was collecting money and promised the people that he was going to take them to His Excellency, the President. Indeed, they boarded two buses, brought the people to Kampala, drove them around and told them that the program had changed. (Laughter) Another incident involved people paying money that they would get chicken from Operation Wealth Creation and the chicken never appeared. I wonder why the security system does not pick up the nitty-gritties. Indeed, one Gombolola Internal Security Officer (GISO) told me -

Thank you Mr Speaker. I rise on the issue of the River Kafu Bridge. I recall that at the beginning of this week, we handled River Kafu of the Masindi- Kampala Road. I saw it necessary to bring the

14366 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT House to recall that sometime last year, the Kafu Bridge on the Hoima Kampala Road over flooded. Actually, it necessitated us to change route and take the Masindi route up to Hoima. When you summoned the Minister of Works and Transport, he stood here and promised that after the rains stopped, the Ministry of Works and Transport would engage whoever was necessary and whatever was needed to ensure that they do constructive work on the bridge. Many dry seasons have come, Mr Speaker, and the ministry is nowhere. If you passed there today, the water is dangerously rising and it is being worsened by the traffic diversion on the Gulu-Kampala Road because of the Karuma Bridge; all the heavy traffic now has gone to Hoima. It is dangerous. I am here with my prayers: i. That the minister explains to us why he did not live up to his word when he stood here on the Floor and told Members what he was going to do when the rains subsided. ii. The honourable Minister of Works and Transport is among the most disciplined ministers we have. Why would he lie to the House? What programmes does he have? I thank you.

Mr Speaker, the Auditor-General reviewed the staff establishment of the following public universities to ascertain their completeness and relevance to the entity established and noted the following: Universities This is how it is presented: approved structure, filled position, the gap, and the percentage of the field position. 1. Soroti University has an approved structure of 1,312. The number of positions filled is 242, the gap is 1,700, and 18 per cent of filled positions. 2. Busitema University has the approved structure of 3,559, filled positions are 503, the gap is 3,056, and 14 per cent percentage filled. 3. Kabale University has approved structure of 2,076, filled positions are 506, the gap is 1,570, and 24 per cent filled. 4. Kyambogo University which was a bone of contention, the approved structure 2,598, filled positions are 913, the gap is 1,685, and 35 per cent filled. 5. Makerere University, Kampala has approved structure of 5,835. Filled positions are 3,141, the gap is 2,694, and 53 per cent. That is why our boss was once there in that department. It is the best university - ( Interjections ) - No, there is Law Development Centre (LDC). 6. Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has an approved structure of 2,609, filled positions are 581, the gap is 2,042, and 22 per cent. 7. Gulu University has an approved structure of 1,568, filled positions are 571, the gap is 977, and 36 per cent. 8. Lira University has 991, field positions are 265, the gap is 726, and 26 per cent. 9. Law Development Centre (LDC) 202, field positions 135, the gap is 67 and the percentage is 68. Mr Speaker, from what I have just read, it is only Makerere University that is staffed at over 50 per cent of the approved staff structure. What this means is that for the other universities, there is very little they can do to achieve the output. For example, Busitema and Soroti Universities as well as Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), which have 14, 18 and 22 per cent staffing levels respectively are depriving learners of the much-needed services. We are aware - the rest is history. That is the information that fills the staffing levels of all public universities drawn from a special audit done by the Auditor-General on the directive of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. We passed money here for the recruiting of teachers in the grant-aided seed schools, but to date, despite the Education Service Commission conducting interviews, the teachers have not been deployed. May we know why that is so? Two, on the issue of universities, my belief is that when they talk about these regional universities, it is just by location. Any Ugandan should be able to go to any of them regardless of the location. That is how we shall be able to build nationalism in this country. However, people think that when a university is in Soroti, it is only meant for Iteso. No! It is only based in Soroti, but any person should be able to go and study from there. I think that mentality should change. The location of a university does not mean you must have a quota. You should be able to go anywhere in this world. Some of us who can crisscross and study across this country feel so comfortable and free because from Teso to Kabarole to Mbarara to Kampala, you feel all round; this mentality of taking universities as a local government should stop. Mr Speaker, on the issue of the Student Loan Scheme, I want you to give me time next week. I have a list here of students who have benefited from the loan scheme. How can Moroto District have only one student being given? Then you find a district like Tororo has been given 47. How? Karenga, one. Is that a quota? When you look at Butambala, six. Look at Serere, it has eight. But you find some districts have 75. Ntungamo has 65. How can this be a loan scheme that is based on a quota system? Mr Speaker, next week, give me time. I will read the list to the House, district by district, and you see whether this is really a quota system. This is unfair and these were the matters that were raised. You find a district like Busia has

Thank you so much, Mr Speaker. I want to join my colleagues to thank the Committee of PAC for the report well- written in terms of how to improve university education. I had the privilege of working with Kyambogo University for nine years, rising through the ranks from a tutorial fellow to an assistant lecturer. What the committee pointed out is actually correct on this. I think our priorities are wrong. The teaching profession is the bedrock of all professions. Once you do not prioritise it, you will not get the products you need, and, that is what we are actually grappling with. When you struggle to see lecturers going to teach in other universities, it is because there is no priority in giving allowances. How can you teach in a university in Kampala, and rely on a salary yet you are in class from about six o’clock to about 10 or 11 in the night? And then we say, “We are giving them the best.” I think we are giving them a raw deal. That is one thing that I would want to say, and I really agree with the recommendation of the committee, that the accounting officer should appropriately budget for, but also prioritise teaching allowances, and liaise with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to ensure their timely payment. When you go to the university, you see the education. You are talking about 30 per cent of the teaching staff on the payroll, and relying on the part-time teachers. For classes that go to about 500 students, what are we talking about? I really think we need to prioritise the kind of attention, the thinking, the planning, and the resourcing of the teaching profession. Thank you so much.

Mr Speaker, first of all, I thank you for giving us an extensive debate on education and basically PAC. I also thank the chairperson of the committee and the Members. Let this be on record, Mr Speaker, there is no valid reason the First Lady will give for not coming to Parliament as a minister and attending committees of Parliament. Members of Parliament or chairpersons of committees cannot be summoned by a minister. It is null and void ab initio . At one time, we were invited to attend a meeting with the First Lady at Kololo as Members of Parliament of the Committee on Education and Sports, and we rejected this. As the Committee on Education and Sports, we agreed that we shall continue doing our work. The onus is on the Minister of Education and Sports failing to appear before the committee. Records will remain there. Mr Speaker, the issue we should address seriously, and is factual, is that these universities came politically. How do we make them survive? We shall continue lamenting and crying but the products will come out and affect each and every one of us. We know what is in Makerere and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST). There are challenges. Some of these universities, like Soroti University, are diverting from the intention and course units that we had prepared for them, because they have to get students to study there. We have to go back and address these factors. Mr Speaker, and honourable minister, the issue of recommendations of the committees are very pertinent. Let us look at why we have accounting officers who have godfathers - committees of Parliament make recommendations that these people should be sacked or are incriminated but they continue serving. We should not protect those people. They should leave office and be arrested through our recommendations, the way the Kazindas were taken there and others. Virements and mischarge should not be even appearing any further. Honourable minister, you know how we handled that. We used to work together when I was in PAC. Now, I am back there. These are areas that have directive procedures that must be followed to be carried out by an accounting officer - if you want to make a mischarge, you seek authority from the Accountant-General and then you proceed. On page 25 of Hon. Muwanga’s report, the issue of land - I do not know how you are going to direct - it will be within your discretion, Mr Speaker, whether you want to put a select committee. All these recommendations on land; getting land titles or demarcating and saving land for these institutions should be given first-hand attention. It can be either in the Committee on Education and Sports where I belong, give us time to go and carry out a status report on the land issue of institutions. When it comes to municipalities and cities like Kampala, a lot of land is being taken over and the head teachers have nothing to say because they fear losing their jobs. I thank the honourable minister. You look at the report by the committee of education. For the three months we gave you, you utilise them further to give us a formidable report based on this so that we solve the issue of having dilapidated institutions. The chairperson of the Budget Committee is there. I went to that committee, as the Shadow Minister of Education – ( Member timed out.)

I gave them my statistics on the schools in the Karamoja region and the required number of science and arts teachers. I gave them the figures. I said: “Let us look for something that can make these teachers feel happy.” However, Karamoja, specifically, has challenges of children refusing to go to school and, instead, coming to Kampala. We should

Honourable Government Chief Whip, we have a memorandum of cooperation between Pakwach and Mitooma districts - (Laughter)- I really cannot fend for Mitooma alone yet we have a cooperation agreement. The people of Pakwach need help from the Office of the Prime Minister. They need boats for the children to cross the river - and also want to come to Parliament and see - IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 17TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 2.15 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Yes, honourable minister. THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR FINANCE, PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (General duties) (Mr Henry Musasizi ) Thank you, Mr Speaker. I wish to present a statement on the release of funds for the Capitation Grant for the Financial Year 2024/2025, as I committed to this House yesterday. During the 16th Sitting of the First Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 11 th Parliament of Uganda, held on Tuesday 17 September 2024, I made a commitment to provide a statement on the release of the Capitation Grant for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Funds for the Capitation Grant are released in line with the school calendar year during the first, third and fourth quarters of every financial year to cater for term three, term one and term two, respectively. More funds are released in the second quarter of the financial year. The total approved budget for the capitation grants for the Financial Year 2024/2025 is Shs 490.298 billion. During the first quarter, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development released Shs 163.433 billion to local governments to cater for term three, as shown in the table below. I invite members to look at the figures displayed on the screen. Mr Speaker, whereas the Ministry for Finance released the capitation grant in the first quarter, the Ministry of Education and Sports requested accounting officers in local governments and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to halt the transfer of these funds to institutions until the schools have validated enrolments. The instructions from the Ministry of Education and Sports to this effect dated 23 July 2024 are attached as Annex 1. Because the Ministry of Education and Sports noted discrepancies in the online Education Management Information System (EMIS) data submitted by the head teachers, the ministry intends to ensure that enrolment numbers are not inflated. Based on the information from the Ministry of Education and Sports, 113 local governments have to date been cleared to transfer capitation grants to the respective institutions and the remaining have been reminded to submit their validated enrolments before they can be cleared to pay. The instructions from the Ministry of Education and Sports to this effect dated 9 September 2024, are also attached as Annex 2. I have also attached Annex 3, showing the total budget and first quarter releases, corresponding term 3 of the Capitation Grant for the financial year 2024/2025, for each local government, for further information to this House. I submit.

Mr Speaker, I am going to Capitation Grant – Category 1: Primary Education, under Non-Wage Recurrent, we approved Shs 298 billion. In Quarter 1, you released Shs 99.58 billion, in Quarter 3, it was Shs 99 billion and in Quarter 4, it was Shs 99 billion something. When you add up that money, it comes to Shs 280 billion. So, where is the Shs 90 billion? Kindly, address yourself to that area. You have so far released Shs 280 billion, but we approved Shs 298 billion. Shs 90 billion is not seen where it is supposed to be. Mr Speaker, let me thank the minister for education – and, I am still winning on the issue, which I raised yesterday: there is no Capitation Grant in schools. Parents, children and teachers are not aware of what you are talking about. When a school is beginning, you need money to run it. If you are dealing with validation, that is yours. The weakness of the Ministry of Education and Sports should not impact our children. If you have not sent the money to schools and you are telling us that you stopped districts - you gave them - you have called it a “statement”. I do not know whether it is a statement or a directive. I do not know how you communicate with your local governments. Do you communicate to them through statements, or you give directives for validation? Schools must continue running. I spoke to the minister, but as we talk, we have schools in Kampala like Buganda Road Primary School, Bat Valley Primary School and Kitante Primary School, which do not have pit latrines. They use –(Interjection)- I can take the information - (Interruption)

Mr Speaker, my statement is clear. A letter has already been written to all the CAOs and the letter is attached. I think the minister has already attached it here. It was written on 9 th September, and it is to all local government accounting officers and the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). The heading is: “Release Advice for First Quarter, Term 3 for Financial Year 2024/2025.” I think if, as the minister has presented, you go through this letter, which was sent on 9 th September, you will notice the total number of 113 local governments and accounting officers who have been ordered to release the funds.

Thank you, Mr Speaker, and thank you, committee, for the elaborate report. Given the sub-regional development gap and the extremely high poverty rate, Karamoja certainly needed affirmative action yesterday. Every morning and evening when you are stuck in traffic, you will notice that almost all the street children in Kampala and the urban

Yes, we had a few - because I had more Members and they were saying, “you have not given us a chance” and I said, no, we carry the debate and conclude it from Kampala. I do not know - Honourable minister, are there any clarifications you had come up with regarding the same so that we can conclude it well?

Later on, we shall move a motion to pay tribute to her and I will allow you, honourable colleagues, to express your views and condolences in as far as our sister’s death is concerned. Honourable colleagues, on a more positive and beautiful note, our President clocked 80 years and we had a huge celebration. (Applause) I usually tell friends that someone attaining another year on earth is something worth IN THE PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA Official Report of the Proceedings of Parliament FOURTH SESSION - 16TH SITTING - 1ST MEETING Parliament met at 2.05 p.m. in Parliament House, Kampala. PRAYERS (The Deputy Speaker, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, in the Chair.) The House was called to order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14250 TRIBUTE TO THE LATE SGT REBECA CHEPTEGEI Mr Speaker, I was very disturbed when we lost our two generals, because I know what it means for the nation to train a soldier to reach up to the rank of a general. A lot of resources are spent on this person, but the knowledge and expertise that guarantee our security is very key. So, it is very disturbing that we lost our two generals through road accidents. The first question, Mr Speaker, is to find out the circumstances that led to the death of these two generals. How could these two generals die in one day, at different times? They were in different cars so, what would be really the reason? Can we get an explanation from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs? The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs must come here with an explanation about the cause of these two generals’ deaths because we value our generals, we value our army. Mr Speaker, I stand as the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on Road and Water Safety. We are losing a lot of lives in this country out of reckless accidents and when we go to the researchers, they show that 95 per cent of these accidents are due to human error. Unfortunately, through all these different spiritual beliefs, Ugandans have come to believe that actually it is God’s plan for somebody to die on the road. This is very unfortunate because in other nations where the traffic laws work, we experience very minimal loss of lives. But here in Uganda, everybody has come to be accustomed that actually, it is the act of God that is robbing our people on the roads. Mr Speaker, my prayer, as I sit down, is that it is good you visited us in Fort Portal. The Fort Portal-Kampala Road; this is a national road but it is a total mess, it is dilapidated. A journey that would take only four hours now takes seven and a half hours. This is the road where this Minister of State for Works passes to go to his constituency. It is where the Prime Minister passes to go to her constituency, where the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development passes to go to his constituency. I am wondering, really, when you sit in the Cabinet, what happens regarding this national economic road that is now going to cause more deaths for our people. I beg to move.

Mr Speaker, I never intend to raise a point of order because, of course, you know one time you directed me - and the minister promised to go with me to the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway so that we look at the barricades that were removed but

Thank you, honourable minister, for giving way. Mr Speaker, last year, Kafu Bridge was washed away by floods. The honourable Minister of Works and Transport came here and told Parliament that works will commence this early January. With oil and gas at its highest peak in the country, Kampala-Hoima Road is the main route to the Albertine Graben and most of the heavy trucks are using that bridge. I would like the honourable minister to also clarify when the Kafu Bridge construction works are going to start. I submit.